[JDEV] File transfer and file sharing: view of end-user

[Jan Niehusmann]

On Wed, Oct 23, 2002 at 03:33:11PM +0200, Mattias Campe wrote:
> like I already said, lots of my friends don't know how to set up an ftp 
> server, but they do know how to activate file sharing with ICQ. Why is 
> it much simpeler, well:
> - they don't have to worry that the other part has to know their IP
> - they use a client which is started every day (versus an ftp-server)
> - they don't have to make accounts (loginname + password), because they 
> can use the roster...

Well, these are user interface issues, no need for new protocols.

In fact, exchanging IP addresses and establishing a transport channel
can be problematic in todays internet, with firewalls and NAT everywhere.
That problem is covered by JEP-0041, available at
http://www.jabber.org/jeps/jep-0041.html

And, while you are there, have a look at JEP-0052, file transfer. I
think, using that JEP, most of your ideas can be implemented. Of course,
some nice user interfaces are still needed.

Jan