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What is the I2 Hub?

What is the I2 Hub?

I2 Hub is an Internet-2 specific peer-to-peer file sharing program. Internet 2 is a faster form of Internet that is used by a number of universities, research facilities and private companies. The program was created by Wayne Chang, a student at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Officially launched in March of 2004, by 2005 the number of universities using the program had grown to over 400. 

I2 Hub - How Does it Work and What Do You Need To Use It?

The I2 Hub was designed for and intended to be used by university and college students. Users will not be able to access the I2 Hub unless they are on an I2 hub-enabled campus. If a student is on one of these campuses, they have to simply visit the I2 Hub Web site and download the software. Once the software is downloaded, high-speed browsing can begin. 

I2 Hub allows students to conduct research, chat and swap files at speeds much faster than the already high-speed connections available at most universities.

I2 Hub – The Controversy

The creators of the I2 Hub did not intend for files to be shared illegally. Rather, they envisioned users being able to use the Internet in a way they never had before. While the I2 Hub service is legal, downloading copyrighted files, such as music, is not. As of June 2005, two students had been charged with allegedly using the I2 Hub to download copyrighted materials.

While most universities put restrictions on commodity (regular) Internet speeds, virtually no restrictions are placed on Internet 2 speeds. This is seen by some students as an open invitation to quickly and easily download whatever they want, even entire DVDs, in as little as 30 seconds.

Universities have always been somewhat of a hub for file-swapping, as Internet connection speeds at colleges are almost always faster than connection speeds in homes or businesses. Recent signs of I2 Hub abuse are likely to encourage the recording industries to take a closer look at the I2 Hub and Internet 2.

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