Myster

Myster is a file sharing utility that has developed a unique, standalone protocol and application for efficient operation without the need for a central logistics server. It is a completely new peer-to-peer system that is completely distributed like Gnutella, but with theoretically greater scalability. The software is also based on a simple binary/UTF-8 protocol for excellent international support and ease of implementation.

Similar to BitTorrent, Hotline, and FreeNet, Myster allows users to share their files with others and download files being shared by others on the Myster network, over the Internet. However, the Myster protocol and application have been developed with a completely new, unique, and open-source distributed networking protocol that builds on the best features of past P2P efforts, raising the bar for distributed file sharing over the Internet.

Some key features of Myster include a completely distributed framework of peers, eliminating the need for a central server, the ability to search the network without "flooding" it with requests for information, a real-time, self-organizing, and self-optimizing network, and support for multiple types of data, not just MP3s. The software is cross-platform, fully Java compatible, and offers a user-friendly interface.

The latest release of Myster includes major and minor bug fixes throughout the software, improved search engine performance, vastly improved stability and efficiency, more intelligent multisource downloads, improved network efficiency, and tougher restrictions on leeching users. It also features more efficient hashing of shared files, faster and more accurate metadata reading, tons of small user interface improvements, and better compatibility with Mac OS Java 1.4.x. Additionally, Myster file indexing is now done in the background, and the software offers improved code documentation and support for Mac OS Classic. At present, Myster is 31000+ lines of code.