Other Internet software

The Internet is an open network, and new applications for using it are developed all the time. Such applications include, for example, video and radio transmissions, Internet phone calls and online shops for video and music.

Audio/video software

The best-known systems for distributing audio and video files are Flash Video, Windows Media, QuickTime and RealMedia. For example, YouTube uses Flash. The systems can be used for both live broadcasts and distribution of files.

In order to watch broadcasts or files, you have to download the software of the manufacturer in question or a plug-in that enables interoperability.

Peer-to-peer networks

A peer-to-peer network is a system used for sharing files between computers over the Internet. The network is used for decentralised file sharing, in other words, each computer connected to the network can download and share files simultaneously. Using peer-to-peer networks requires a separate program.

Peer-to-peer networks are related to both legal issues (illegal copying) and information security risks (a common way to spread bots and other malware).

Internet calls

It is possible to form a connection from the Internet to a public telephone network. The phenomenon is called VoIP (Voice over IP). The best-known example of Internet telephony is Skype which is based on a peer-to-peer network.