The Emergence of Darknets: The Future of Peer-to-Peer Networking

This month Vancouver's Rob Sanders and Rui Chen give us an insider's view of what's happening in the world of peer-to-peer (P2P) networking. Commonly referred to as darknetting by Hollywood and others, P2P is at the center of much political and legal debate. Following the presentation we'll do a round of introductions and then open the floor for networking. Bring your business cards and find out from each other who's doing what in Vancouver.

About the speakers:

Rob Sanders is the Development Manager for Laplink Software Canada where he manages the development of Laplink ShareDirect. Rob's background includes extensive work in small and medium businesses and government organizations. Rob's experience is particularly relevant in the peer-to-peer field as he worked for two years as a senior engineer/project manager in the industry.

Rui Chen is a graduate of Simon Fraser University and is presently the senior software architect at Laplink Software Canada where he is engaged in developing cutting edge internet applications. Rui is also currently finishing an MBA in Technology.

Rui and Rob begin with a very brief introduction to Napster. They'll discuss the technological and topographical advancements which made the development of peer-to-peer technology possible.

The presentation follows with a fairly deep coverage of Kazaa Media Desktop, Gnutella and other popular "public" peer to peer titles.

Rob will discuss the legal issues involved with popular p2p systems and present a few stories from his time working for Sharman Networks. He'll also discuss how the changing legal climate will affect future technology development.

Rui will explain the alternatives to "public" p2p or "darknetting". They'll demonstrate a new product from Laplink and show how people can take advantage of p2p technology in a more refined way.

The presentation ends by reflecting on the future of the Internet from the point of view of collaboration and the virtual office. What role will p2p technology play in the future? Will legal threats stifle further development of the internet?