Websites that offer free music downloads are perhaps the most popular despite controversies surrounding their existence. Then, there are also peer-to-peer file sharing networks or programs such as Kazaa, IMesh, and Limewire that let users share their music files with one another. Online music stores are the equivalent of brick-and-mortar record shops. Napster, URGE, Apple iTunes, or MSN's Music store are some of the most popular sites where you can download songs for a price.

Since their music files are free, more people prefer using free websites or file sharing programs. However, these methods pose greater threat on your computers. Not only it is illegal to download music files without copyright or license as these sites and programs are wont to do, but it also makes your computers susceptible to spyware and other viruses.

Mp3 music downloads through free downloading sites and peer-to-peer file sharing networks directly violate the copyright protection law. Quite a number of these websites and file sharing networks have already been closed down due to the impact it has created on the decline of the music industry. This led to the dawning of online music stores that offer downloadable songs priced at $1 and above. In fact, in some countries, downloaded music sales have become higher than the sales of actual compact disc copies.

For best results, it's better to visit online music stores for your mp3 music downloads.