Peer-to-Peer and Client/Server Networks Darsheen Smith Strayer University

Peer-to-Peer and Client/Server Networks A network is a group of computers and other devices, such as a printer, that are connected by some type of transmission media (i.e. fiber optic cables or radio waves) (Dean, 2010, p.2). Originally “sneakernet” was the only means of electronic source sharing. It involved the transfer of electronic information by physically couriering removable media, such as floppy disks, from one computer to the next (Wikipedia, 2011, para 1). With the advancement of computer technology so is the modernization of computer networking. Analysis There are two types of networks, peer-to-peer and client/server networks. Both have the capability to communicate with other computers on the network. They also have the capability to protect files from unauthorized users. There are also distinct differences between the two types of networks. In a peer-to-peer network every computer can communicate directly with every other computer. No computer has more authority than another. A Typical peer-to-peer network consists of two or more personal computers (Dean, 2010, p.3). In contrast, a client/server network consists of a central computer, called a server, which is designed to permit communication and information sharing between computers, known as clients, on the network. The clients do not share their resources directly with each other, but rather use the server as an intermediary. Clients and servers communicate through connectivity devices such as switches and routers (Dean, 2010, p.5). There are also advantages and disadvantages of having these types of networks. Some of the advantages of a peer-to-peer network are the simplicity to configure and it can be less expensive to setup and maintain than a client/server network (Dean, 2010, p.4). Some of the disadvantages are it is not flexible where there is a need for expansion in the network. Changing or adding elements can be difficult (Dean, 2010, p.4). For example, each user on the network is responsible for configuring their computer to allow access or no access to certain files on the computer from other users. As the network grows it will require a lot more configuring for the new users on the network based on their need to access certain files from other computers. The network can also have security issues because unauthorized users can easily access sources from other users. Some of the advantages of a client/server are that it can be used on a larger scale due to the centralized computer connection. It is more secure because logon accounts and passwords for everyone can be assigned in one place (Dean, 2010, p.6). Problems that may arise on the network can be monitored, diagnosed, and fixed easily from one location vise going to each computer. Some of the disadvantages are if the server goes down then the entire network may go down. It is more expensive to install due to the hardware and software involved and its complexity to set up. And it needs to be maintained by staff with IT skills (Biohealthmatics, 2010). Discussion In conclusion, networking via electronically has made resource sharing so much easier, faster, and convenient. Computers are a vital part of our everyday lives at home and at work so information sharing is prevalent. With this domination of information comes the need for a reliable and vigorous network. Because of the current fast paced generation there is no time for the delay of information sharing. The largest and world-wide network is the internet.

References Biohealthmatics. (2010). Client/server networks. Retrieved April 12, 2011, from: http://www.biohealthmatics.com/technologies/networks/client_server.aspx Dean, T. (2010). Network + guide to networks. Mason, Ohio: Cengage Learning. Wikipedia Foundation. (2010). Sneakernet. Retrieved April 12, 2011, from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sneakernet.