>I've had a student challenge me about this approach. While we are
within our rights to block p2p traffic, and to disable network access
for those _running_ p2p software, can we really
>tell a student which _inactive_ programs they're allowed to have
installed on their personally owned computers?


Please keep in mind the following, network access in this situation is a
privilege, not a right, and as such is granted subject to the student
agreeing to some rules which in fact, benefit the entire community (no
P2P, no bandwidth hogging). If the student feels unduly restricted, they
can either not participate, or secure their own high bandwidth
connection. Many fine wireless services exist and constitute a
reasonable alternative for a student who wants to retain his or her
control over their computer. If the student wants to use the facility
provided, they must abide by the rules. Res Republica. 

Dan Sichel