Since its inception, the internet has brought about a convenient way to exchange information through file sharing. Be it movies, games, music, and other electronic data, file sharing via peer-to-peer or P2P networks. This sharing has raised many ethical issues, with entertainment companies voicing their displeasure at such practices. The issue of its legality has also sparked off many lawsuits with many reaching the US Supreme Court as well. File sharing is a contentious issue still, and there are arguments both for and against the practice.

Die hard supporters of file sharing over the internet do believe that rather than harm anyone, it actual helps the industry to a large extent. To begin with it is a great promotional tool for lesser known artists. Moreover, this is the best way for consumers to sample a product prior to making a purchase. The quality of shared files does not always meet up to the same standard as the originals since they are in a compressed format. Alos, getting instruction manuals is impossible with file sharing, hence many users do opt for the original. For the most part, users who share files aren’t harming anyone since it is merely a case of bartering. They do not make a profit from file sharing either.