NETWORK TYPES

NETWORK TYPES

1. Peer To Peer

   • A network in which all the devices are equal and connect directly to each other
   • Files are stored on individual devices which can be shared with other devices
   • P2P networks can be used at home to share files between devices or used to connect to a printer
   • ADVANTAGE - Easy to maintain (no expertise needed to manage hardware
     • ADVANTAGE - No dependence on a server (if a device fails, the rest will keep working
   • DISADVANTAGE - Copying files creates duplicates, it is easy to lose track of what files are stored where
     • DISADVANTAGE - No centralised management (devices need updating individually)
       • DISADVANTAGE - Machines will slow down when other devices access them

2. CLIENT SERVER NETWORKS

   • A network that is manged by a server that takes requests from clients
   • Devices are connected to the server. The client sends requests to the server e.g. asking for data. the server processes the request and responds
   • The server may deny requests to users without the correct access level
   • ADVANTAGE - Easy to keep track of files
     • ADVANTAGE - Easier to perform back ups, install/update software
       • ADVANTAGE - Servers are very reliable and are always on
   • DISADVANTAGE - Expensive to set u and requieres IT specialists to maintain the network and server
     • DISADAVNTAGE - If the server fails, all clients lose access to their work
       • DISADVANTAGE - If there are too many people on the server, the server will become overloaded