What Are LimeWire Tunes?

LimeWire is a program designed for the Java platform that enables users to perform peer-to-peer file sharing. It is based on the Gnutella network, which enables users to locate files on the network and download or upload them. Users of the program sometimes refer to the downloaded music files as "LimeWire tunes."

Function

LimeWire tunes can be downloaded on any computer that is enabled to utilize the Java Virtual Machine software. It works with Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X and Linux as an Internet gateway device.

Features

LimeWire is available in two different formats: a free version or enhanced fee-based version. The free version allows users to connect to a maximum of eight hosts at any time. The fee-based version comes with updates for up to a year and provides 66 percent better search results.

Considerations

The source code for LimeWire has been adopted by a number of other software projects for use in similar peer-to-peer file sharing programs. These include Penn State University's LionShare and Cornell University's Credence.

Significance

A New York-based company, LimeWire LLC has come under criticism by many legal channels and a number of anti-piracy advocates due to the fact that LimeWire tunes and video are readily available to be illegally downloaded.

Effects

In response to the criticism, LimeWire has launched a new store for users to legally purchase tunes for a fee. In addition, the company offers a subscription service that lets users download for even less.

References

• What is LimeWire?
• How to Use LimeWire
• LimeWire Download Information

Resources

• LimeWire.com