E-learning and P2P
Every now and then, e-learning is so inundated with new technologies that almost everybody involved with it has become used to the latest one being upheld as the hottest upcoming trend in the e-learning market. So, is this technology, like most others, just a passing phenomenon as far as e learning is concerned? Or is it really, as claimed by experts, poised to change the face of e learning forever?

P2P defined
Peer to peer or P2P is basically a networking technology, where ‘peers’ or individual computers share each other’s resources. P2P networking essentially allows the sharing of resources and data along with supporting collaboration among peers. The network supplies a resource requested by a peer by accessing any other computer within the network and checking its availability with them, its location not withstanding. The peculiarity of the network lies in the fact that it becomes more useful when the resources are widely scattered among peers rather then if they are placed on a few centralized servers.

Characteristics of a P2P network
A P2P network supports the following functions

Sharing of resources
Computing resources are typically shared on a P2P network, which forms a dispersed computing environment of sorts, and in turn, enables the network to perform complex computing that could have been far fetched for a single processor.

Sharing of data
A P2P network links one computer to all the others within the network without the link going through the server. And since data is stored on individual computers instead of a central file server, the network is capable of creating a storehouse of innumerable data files.

Collaborating within groups
Shared spaces allow individuals as well as groups to collaborate with each other. This assists in sharing as well as modifying the shared material.

The use of P2P in e-learning
By providing a non-supervisery environment for interaction, a P2P network encourages informal exchange of information in contrast to the rigid learning structure of e-learning initiatives. Moreover, if the network is large enough, there are increased possibilities of enhanced learning through information access, exchange and storage.

Nonetheless, using P2P in learning is not quite different from being a part of a typical e-learning environment, the only difference being that a P2P network creates a casual atmosphere and provides access to more information as compared to the latter. Learners can create a community which makes available relevant content. They need to make an effort to search this content and modify or comment on it, if need be. All other factors that affect learning in an e-learning program also apply to learning through P2P networks.

Drawbacks of a P2P network
Like any other technology, P2P suffers from the following disadvantages.

Authentication of content
Since any individual computer within the network can make content available, authentication of available content is a major concern. The reliability of data can be strengthened by asking peers to include resources, dates and background information on the data. Also, communication with the resource provider to know more about the validity of the content may help.

Security concerns
In a network that allows peers to access shared spaces, security can pose a major issue. How secure can data remain in such a scenario? The following explanation can provide the answer. The collaborative spaces on a P2P network are usually encrypted, access to which is provided only to invitees. And while collaborative products can be used, they all have certain prohibitions to their use, making them unpopular with people who get rubbed off seeking consent each time. Encryption methods are the key to the security of such P2P networks. But, this sounds easy said than done. Involve the security expert when you consider becoming a part of such an environment. In context with the encryption, be sure of whether the files, data transmission or the logging information is getting encrypted. Keeping desired data out of the reach of peers is possible by employing usage protocols.

Epilogue
Like any other technology, P2P has its pros and cons. Therefore, instead of employing a P2P network as a complete learning solution, it is rather advisable to use it in juxtaposition of the existing e-learning environment. This way, you can overlook certain drawbacks of the system to some extent. Rather than considering P2P networks as a threat to existing technologies within the elearning context, experts must view it as a valuable aid that would render e-learning more popular and effective.