Supernodes in the context of file-sharing technologies are a searchable index of files stored on a group of user’s computers. As an example, Kazaa is made up of nodes and supernodes. Nodes are users with average CPU speeds and internet connection speeds, supernodes are indexes of files available on a group of nodes. Users with fast internet connections and powerful CPUs are designated to become supernodes. The advantage of this system is that users can search an index on one computer not a whole range of computers. When a file is selected for download the user connects to another user and the file is transferred directly between their computers and not through the supernode. Supernodes are able to connect to other supernodes in order to expand their database. With Kazaa, operating as a supernode generally only takes up around 10% of CPU power (Kazaa.com, 2004).
Because of the system of nodes and supernodes it is very difficult if not impossible to shut down such a network. This type of network is decentralised and the supernodes are constantly changing. Also, anyone with a powerful enough system and connection can become a supernode, preventing authorities from forcing corporations to close down servers as was seen with the original Napster In 2002 a US bill was passed allowing copyright holders to conduct attacks on suspected pirates. The intention was to “log on to a network and deliberately overload suspected users with fake requests for a file, by misinforming other "nodes". This is similar to overloading a web site with fake traffic in a "denial of service" attack� (Knight, 2002).
Daniel Fisher 11:28, 9 Sep 2004 (EST)
