The advent of peer-to-peer technologies has changed the world in many ways and the realm of copyrights has certainly felt the impact.  After Sony Betamax, companies were not liable for contributory infringement as long as the product is "capable of substantial [non-infringing] uses." Groxter, however, changed everything.  The United States Supreme Court stated that “one who distributes a device with the object of promoting its use to infringe copyright, as shown by clear expression or other affirmative steps taken to foster infringement, is liable for the resulting acts of infringement by third parties.”

A line was drawn.  Not a clear line, but a line none-the-less --designers of peer-to-peers systems could no longer rely upon their good intentions of distributing Linux to the masses.  Something more is required.  At the same time, groups such as America’s RIAA, United Kingdom’s Performing Right Society, and others began ramping up monitoring campaigns of peer-to-peer networks and their enforcement campaigns.

So what does a peer-to-peer network look like that follows the law, allows for non-infringing uses, and protects the privacy of users?  How do developers continue to research and develop without becoming liable for the actions of others?