BitTorrent Restrictions

Owned by Max Parmer
Last updated: Oct 22, 2024
2 min read

Transferring files using the BitTorrent protocol is not allowed over Portland State's Wi-Fi network. Restriction of BitTorrent activity protects the campus community and ensures that everyone using Wi-Fi receives the fastest, most reliable internet connection possible.

Understand Illegal File Sharing

BitTorrent is a type of file sharing protocol that is often used to illegally distribute copyrighted material, such as movies and music. Using BitTorrent to share copyrighted files has multiple negative effects:

  • Security risk: Use of BitTorrent protocol is done with a "torrenting" client, which creates connections with hundreds of other users all over the internet and can leave your computer vulnerable to attack from outside parties.

  • Unfair use of internet bandwidth: Torrenting files is typically a large, constant drain on a network. This negatively affects the speed and reliability of everyone else's internet connection on campus.

  • Penalties for illegal activity: Illegal file sharing is a violation of Portland State University's Acceptable Use Policy, the Illegal File Sharing Standard, and federal law. Therefore, PSU is obligated to respond every time a file is shared illegally on its network with increasing levels of sanctions, including suspension of your internet access.

The most common type of torrenting activity at PSU occurs unintentionally, when someone does not turn off their torrent application before bringing their laptop to campus, causing it to reconnect as soon as they open it and connect to PSU's Wi-Fi. Once that connection has been made, PSU is then legally required take action to penalize the individual, regardless of intent.

The restriction on BitTorrent protocol does not prevent anyone from opening a torrent client on their computer, but it does prevent that client from forming any successful connections. This means that even unintentional violations will not be possible.

Alternatives to BitTorrent

Faculty who use BitTorrent to distribute class materials are encouraged to use Google Drive instead. Individuals looking for legal alternatives available to obtain movies, television shows, music, and books can check out the Educause list of Legal Sources of Online Content.