Based on your query, it seems you may be mixing up two distinct, pioneering peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing technologies from the early 2000s: Gnutella and eDonkey2000 (often referred to as “Donkey” or “eDonkey”).
While both were popular decentralized networks used for sharing files during the post-Napster era, they operated differently. 1. Gnutella
What it is: Gnutella is a fully decentralized peer-to-peer network protocol.
How it works: Unlike Napster, which used a central server to list files, Gnutella allows computers (servents—acting as both client and server) to connect directly to each other. It uses a “flooding” method where queries are sent to connected peers, which pass them on to their peers.
Key Feature (Ultrapeers): To improve efficiency, Gnutella evolved to use “ultrapeers” (or supernodes), which act as hubs for many smaller, less powerful nodes, creating a hybrid, faster network structure.
Popular Clients: Software like LimeWire, BearShare, and Shareaza used the Gnutella network.
Status: In 2007, it was the most popular file-sharing network, holding over 40% market share at its peak, and it still exists today in a diminished state. 2. eDonkey2000 (“Donkey” / eDonkey)
What it is: A file-sharing network known for sharing large files (like movies or software) and utilizing a decentralized approach combined with indexing servers.
Key Feature (Hash-based Search): eDonkey used “hash” values to identify files, ensuring that even if files had different names, they were recognized as the same content.
The “Donkey” Network: It was highly popular for its reliability in downloading large files by pulling pieces from many sources simultaneously. Summary Comparison
Gnutella was known for being a truly decentralized, decentralized search mechanism (finding rare files).
eDonkey was known for its hash-based system, which was superior for finding and downloading very large files reliably.
Both were essential in the evolution of decentralized networking. If you’re interested, I can: Tell you more about the legal challenges they faced
Explain the difference between centralized and decentralized networks
Compare the top clients for each network (e.g., Limewire vs. eMule)