Peer-2-Peer file sharing has become the de-facto way of downloading audio and video files from the web since the creation of programs such as Napster and Scour. Though heavily controversial, and often-times a good way to get sued by large corporations, more and more programs are being created; and thus an end to the exchange of copyrighted material, is, in this writer's humble opinion, a lost cause.

One of the newest file-sharing programs on the web is iMesh. iMesh allows for the trading of audio (mp3 and other formats), video, images, software, and documents. iMesh is very reminiscent of Scour, in it's ability to search for different file types then that of the mother ship P2P program: Napster.

Some Pro's

iMesh allows for fast searching of just about any type of file you could want, and often times, provides reliable, and fast downloads. Unlike other sharing programs, files of the same file name and size are grouped together by the users who have them. Therefore downloads are oftentimes more reliable then other programs because files are auto-resumed from the best available user. This can be nice when you want a huge file on a slow connection. Unlike Napster, if your download stops, it can be resumed instantaneously, or whenever the user comes back on. This is definitely one of the nicest features of iMesh.

Some Con's

The first thing I don't like about iMesh is its need to install a number of programs along with the installation of iMesh. Upon first installation you'll be asked if you want to install two optional programs...but are told the programs are somehow beneficial, when in reality they are just extra software that companies pay iMesh to bundle with their application. It seems everyone is a capitalist.

Second thing is a little program called cd_load.exe, or cydoor. This program is essentially what I consider "spy ware". iMesh claims that this application downloads banner files that are displayed in iMesh, thus iMesh can make a little money. This is fine in theory; but is executed poorly. The cydoor application is by default loaded whenever your computer is started; even if iMesh doesn't start with it. Also, it remains on even when iMesh is closed. Certainly this isn't necessary...in fact this small application seems to seriously slow down my system, and therefore I have some steps in removing it; sort of.

Removing Cydoor
First, if you're in windows 98, you can go to run and type in msconfig. This will load up your system configuration tool. You can then go to your startup list and un-check the cd_load cydoor application from starting when your computer starts.

Second, whenever you load up iMesh you'll notice that cd_load will show up in your task list. You can ctrl-alt-del and end it's task after the application has loaded and you'll have no problems.

Unfortunately cydoor cannot be completed uninstalled because iMesh will not load up without it. After iMesh is loaded though however, cd_load can be killed with no problem.

My Outlook

Honestly, I think iMesh will have a rough future. With the searching of multiple file types iMesh opens a bag of worms that other companies such as Napster, Scour, and MP3.com know to well. If iMesh's member base continues to grow the RIAA and other similar corporations will, of course, bring allegations against them of knowingly trading copyrighted material. In fact the RIAA is already beginning to take action and requiring iMesh to filter copyrighted material. This, I believe, is impossible without totally removing the sharing of audio files. Then of course the movie companies will get on them and video files will need to be removed, etc... and down the chain it will go.

In Conclusion

The creators of iMesh have done a pretty good job with this application. But, they really need to rethink the forced bundling of software and the constant use of cydoor. After some reading through newsgroups you'll notice this is one of the major complaints of iMesh. Also, the application is a bit bloated, in that it is very resource intensive, even on my 450MHz system with 256MB of RAM running Windows 2000. But, since the software is still in Beta, this is acceptable.

iMesh provides a useful service, whether or not most of it is moral is up to each individual. I personally have no problem with it and use it often. Unfortunately, the group I belong to isn't what is standing in the way of iMesh...

We'll have to see how long it lasts...

Overall Grade: C+

Recommended: Yes