This section answers the most commone questions about the xpeers.net platform.

Is xpeers Peer-to-peer (P2P)?

Yes, it is peer-to-peer in the sense that you use an xpeers client to communicate with other members of your group - your peers. xpeers also takes advantage of server technology to allow messages and files to be stored and backed up in a safe location, even when users are not on-line. For example, when you go on-line, you will receive alerts and messages you missed when you were off-line. In addition, the server model allows a greater degree of account management and user authentication that is often required in modern business environments.

What are the minimum system requirements to run xpeers?

We recommend: 200 MHz processor or better, 64 MB RAM (this is more important than speed), 4 MB of free hard disk storage, 56 K modem (works great!), sound card - if you want to hear anything.

How does xpeers support file versioning?

xpeers supports automatic file backup. Each time a file is published, the old copy is saved on the server. You can obtain any prior copy of that file by right clicking on its icon and selecting the History button. You will see a list of all prior versions of the file, along with their dates, sizes, and who published them.

How difficult is it to install xpeers?

Typically it takes about five minutes to install xpeers on your server. It requires that you create a new user account, unzip the distribution files, then copy a file to your CGI bin directory. In addition you will want to add it to your boot startup so the server restarts. Additional changes may be required, depending on your web server setup. Once you have the server running, it is "hands free" and requires no server-side interaction. All other operation can be done from the client by using the admin account.

How can I purchase xpeers?

The default xpeers distribution constist of a 10 named-user license, a special client, the xpeers.net server, and all standard applications. Extending the system is done on a per user base.

Pricing depends on the number of users purchased. Further we offer two hosting options as well. A shared hosting and a dedicated hosting. Please get in contact with us to request a quote. Please provide us with enough information about user numbers, operating system versions etc.

The server is available for Windows, Linux, and FreeBSD. The Link client is shipped for Windows and Linux with each order. Link may be installed on as many systems as the user wishes.

What transport protocoll does it use?

xpeers uses the HTTP transport protocoll. Therefor no special setting for your firewall is required. If you are using a proxy server to access the internet, you can setup the xpeers client to use the proxy server.

Does xpeers has a permissions system?

Yes. There are two methods of control: synchronization and access. The first determines if you will even know of the existence of a set of files. For instance, there are currently dozens of folders and files that are being shared that you don't synchronize because you are not part of the workspace. For each set of files, access privileges can be specified to determine who can add, change, delete, create files, modify server-side code, and perform other actions.

Does xpeers support audio or video conferencing?

No. There are other highly specialized applications that can do this. xpeers is focused on collaboration with respect to files, messages etc.

Does xpeers provide a shared desktop?

No. By the same reason as for audio or video conferencing. If you want to share a desktop we suggest that you take a look at things like VNC.