The first version of peer-to-peer file swap software Grokster to be free of popups and adware - Grokster Pro - was released July 15. But if you want that version, you'll have to pay $19.99 for it.

Those using Grokster, Kazaa, and other P2P programs have long enough complained about the popups hammering at them as they forage for new music, and Grokster told CNET.com the Pro version was aimed at answering those complaints.

"We can offer the user a better experience at a reasonable price that still allows us to pay our bills," said Grokster president Wayne Russo in a formal statement. Grokster Pro arrived at the same time rival Morpheus was released in a new version that lets its users hide their identities by swapping through proxy servers, CNET said.

Grokster and Morpheus, of course, got a big bump in April, when a federal court ruled the programs themselves were not liable for copyright violations by users using them to swaap music and other content files, CNET said. That left the Recording Industry Association of America - which had accused them of violating copyright law by letting users swap without paying - to move toward finding and suing individual users.

Kazaa, for now considered the kingpin of the P2P programs, launched its latest version in late June. This version added licensed content channels, a rewards program for sharing licensed content, upgraded security features, and customizable appearance skins - but no option to do away with popups and adware. The company's Website continues to boast that Kazaa stays free "thanks to advertising software included in the installation."

"The evolution of Kazaa Media Desktop reflects our commitment to (our) long term goals," said Kazaa parent Sharman Networks, Ltd chief executive officer Nikki Hemming at the time of Kazaa 2.5's release. "It provides an excellent user experience by improving choice, usability, and security, and further bridges the gap between content creators, owners and users."

"Do What Thou Wilt Shall Be The Whole Of The Law" - Aleister Crowley 1875-1947

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