Sharman networks, distributor of the popular peer-to-peer file sharing software, Kazaa, and their partner, Altnet have their hopes set on their newly established committee, the Distributed Computing Industry Association (DCIA). Sharman networks are hoping that the commitee will help legitimize P2P networks and software, which has been under constant fire from Hollywood, the recording industry, software developers and politicians since the rise and fall of Napster.

The DCIA is hoping to establish a neutral "forum", where all parties involved in the pro/anti P2P movements can express their concerns and discuss possible strategies for the future of both sides.

Just last week, in an attempt to discourage people from using P2P networks, the RIAA announced plans to gather information on users distributing and willingly downloading material that breaches copyright laws. This move will give the RIAA the power to file thousands of individual copyright infringement lawsuits.

While the future of P2P networks is uncertain, this movement is a step in the right direction for the existence of both P2P industries and the recording and movie industries.

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