An embodiment relates generally to a method for playing for a file. The method includes initiating a playback for a selected file on a reserved server, where the selected file is also distributed in segments across a peer-to-peer network. The method also includes initiating a retrieval of the selected file from the peer-to-peer network or reserved server and ordering the retrieved segments of the selected file for playback. The method further includes switching playback of the selected file between the peer-to-peer network and reserved server according to the real-time performance and availability of the peer-to-peer network and reserved server.