Blocking P2P Apps

[smartcap]

Was just wondering what u guys are using / planing on implementing to deal w/P2P apps (i.e. eDonkey, Bit Torrent, eMule, etc...).

The way we are dealing with it right now (is not the most efficient)...but we are checking our log files nightly to see which ports are being used and then we immediately close the offending port.

[Planet]

Do you have any proxy software set up to control Web usage? Are your users permitted to install software? If so you may want to consider changing what rights your users have on thier machines to prevent P2P software from even being installed in the first place.

Planet...

[MntnMan8000]

How many are in the organization?

You could always make a very clear policy; those who are found to be using such programs will suffer consequences. Then make it clear to all employees.

Network Administrators should not always need to close ports and restrict access to manage security. A good stated policy should be part of security.

[smartcap]

I think I mis-phrased my question:

We don't have an issue corporate wise...

I was just wondering how you guys are dealing with P2P either as a WISP or a hotspot. ;)

[FroZone]

Well, since it's impossible to effectively filter P2P content and if there is one thing that you do NOT want on your network it's P2P traffic then the only real solution is to block it entirely. No to mention that at least 90% of the P2P traffic is music, video and other pirated or otherwise illegal data. We see no business need to allow that traffic. But if need be then we can allow it on a case-by-case bases using the mac address.