A pure peer-to-peer network does not have the notion of clients or servers, but only equal peer nodes that simultaneously function as both “clients” and “servers” to the other nodes on the network. This model of network arrangement differs from the client-server model where communication is usually to and from a central server.

Some networks and channels such as Napster, OpenNAP and IRC server channels use a client-server structure for some tasks (e.g. searching) and a peer-to-peer structure for others. Networks such as Gnutella use a peer-to-peer structure for all purposes, and are sometimes referred to as true peer-to-peer networks, although Gnutella is greatly facilitated by directory servers that inform peers of the network addresses of other peers.

As you can see from above, a peer-to-peer network is complex and it is almost impossible for you to block p2p in the router or the gateway.

WFilter provides a efficient way to block p2p traffic by signature match. By using WFilter, It is very easy for you to detect and block p2p traffic and file downloading.

WFilter related features:

• Detect p2p traffic in your network.
  
• Implement a policy to block certain p2p traffic.
  
• Support over 30 p2p protocols, cover most common p2p softwares.
  
• Define a file extension list forbidden from being download.