What is Napster?

Napster is a pioneering peer-to-peer file sharing internet software that emphasized sharing audio files, typically music, encoded in MP3 format. It was founded in May 1999 by Shawn Fanning and Sean Parker. Its technology allowed music fans to easily share MP3 format song files with each other, thus effectively promoting free distribution of music.

At its peak popularity in 2001, Napster had about 80 million registered users. However, the company's emphasis on sharing copyrighted music raised legal concerns and lawsuits from the music industry which ultimately led to the shutting down of the Napster service in July 2001. However the brand name and assets were later acquired by other companies who tried to create a digital music platform while respecting copyright laws.

The original Napster software became a landmark system due to its innovative facilitation of music sharing amongst the general public. While controversial for promoting freely exchanging copyrighted media, Napster also demonstrated the power of peer-to-peer networks in sharing information over the internet. The service is considered one of the most influential brands associated with the internet's initial growth phases.

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