Compare peer- to-peer and client/server networks and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each

Peer-to-peer network

In a peer-to-peer network, there are no specific servers, and there is no hierarchy among the computers. All the computers are equal and therefore are known as peers. Each computer functions as both a client and a server.

And there is no administrator responsible for the entire network. The user at each computer determines what data on that computer is shared on the network.

Computers in a peer-to-peer network are called peers. In a peer-to-peer network, all computers are considered equal; they all have the same abilities to use the resources available on the network. Each computer can function both as a client and a server. Computers are not dedicated to function as servers. They use the network to share resources among the independent peers. The computer whose applications are required by the other networked computers functions as a server. The other computers function as clients. Therefore, a dedicated administrator is not assigned for network management.

A peer-to-peer network is a small group of people using a network. Peer-to-peer networks members usually perform similar tasks, which necessitates the sharing of resources. The peer-to-peer networks support 10 computers. The users in a peer-to-peer network are located in the same geographical area. Operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows 98 or Microsoft Windows XP, can be used to set up a peer-to-peer network. Additional software is not required because peer-to-peer networking is built into the systems.

Another important point of peer-to-peer networks is that the users of each computer plan and control the security of their resources. The users determine the resources on their computers, which can be shared on the network. The shared network resources, such as disk space, printers or faxes, can be used by anyone who has access to the network. This is possible only if the shared network resources are not password protected. Peer-to-peer networks have weak and intrusive security because a central server is not used to administer and secure the network. In addition, some users may not implement security.

A peer-to-peer network does not support a central login process. This implies that a user who logs on to one peer can access any shared network resource, which is not controlled by a specific password. Peer-to-peer networks are relatively simple. Because each computer functions as a client and a server, there is no need for a powerful central server or for the other components

required for a high-capacity network. Peer-to-peer networks can be less expensive than server-based networks.

Peer-to-peer networks are simple and inexpensive to install and maintain. The cost of implementing peer-to-peer networks is low because a central server is not used to administer the network. In addition, the components for a high-capacity network are not required in a peer-to-peer network.

In a peer-to-peer network, the users handle administration. This means that all the users need to be trained in how to share files, folders, and printers. In a peer-to-peer network, suddenly shutting down your computer can cause one of your colleagues to be unable to print.

Peer-to-peer networks are appropriate for environments where all the users are located in the same geographical area and the network security is not an important factor. In addition, these networks are useful when the network expansion is limited.

Client/ server network

 In a server-based network, clients rely on the services that the server provides, such as file storing and printing. Client computers are generally less powerful than server computers.

A server-based network using network operating system is that the networks are organized into domains. A domain is a collection of networks and clients that share security information. Domain security and logon permissions are controlled by special servers called domain controllers. Users cannot access the resources of servers in a domain until a domain controller has authenticated them.

In server-based networks, a network administrator centrally manages the resource security. The administrator defines and manages user access to network resources.

Another beneficial of server-based networks is central file storage. Server-based networks provide easy backup of critical data. Data backup is another useful characteristic of server based networks.

Server based networks can support a larger number of users than peer-to-peer networks. To support a large number of users, server-based networks use monitoring and network management tools. Servers must perform varied and complex tasks.

Advantages of a peer-to-peer network

Less initial expense.

Setup - An operating system (such as Windows XP) already in place may only need to be reconfigured for peer-to-peer operations.

Disadvantages of a peer-to-peer network:

Decentralized - No Centralized server.

Security - Does not provide the security available on a peer-to-peer network

Advantages of a client/server network

Centralized - Resources and data security are controlled through the server.

Security - More security then Peer-to-peer network.

Flexibility - New technology can be easily integrated into system.

Interoperability - All components (client /server) work together.

Accessibility - Server can be accessed remotely and across multiple platforms.

 

Disadvantages of a client/server network

Expense, requires initial investment in dedicated server.

Maintenance, large networks will require a staff to ensure efficient operation.

Dependence, when server goes down, operations will cease across the network.