Hi,

I'm looking to find out some more regarding linux security when using peer-to-peer file sharing applications

I have a standard firewall configured using iptables, which was generated from here

Is there anything especially I need to consider, such as vulnerabilties when forwarding ports. etc...

Anything info around the subject would be cool!!

Cheers guys..

Have you thaght about using encryption or NIS or Kerberos for authentication.

P2P apps generally are ok, but you should be careful - check what files your sharing, keep up to date with the latest version of whatever P2P app you're using and don't ever download a P2P app from one of those BS sites that promise 'Kazaa Gold' or 'Limewire Gold' or whatever - only get the app from the official developer's site, eg. www.limewire.com. I don't think there's anything you can do in the firewall to make it secure - you either let it through the firewall or you don't, its as simple as that.

How would you use any of this with a P2P app? Aren't these for network authentication? Anyway there isn't any authentication with P2P apps - the whole point is that anyone can download files from anyone else, and encrypting the transfer isn't going to protect you from RIAA spies or whatever.

Yeah, im so sorry, I thaught you were asking how to secure a peer-to pere home network not file sharing (duh!)
I know that ypu can use ethreal (i dont know if thats spelt ok) to monitor network traiific - its useful for discovering security holes.