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Based on how the computers in a network are configured and how
they access information, networks are classified into two types:
peer-to-peer and client-server. Distinctions between the two
types of networks are important because each type possesses
different capabilities.
Peer-to-Peer Networks
In a peer-to-peer network, there are no dedicated servers, and
there is no hierarchy among the computers. All computers are
equal and therefore are known as peers. Each computer functions
as both a client and a server, and usually no administrator is
responsible for maintaining the network. Security is provided by
the local directory database on each computer. The user at each
computer determines what data on that computer is shared on the
network. Peer-to-peer networks are also called
workgroups.
The term workgroup describes a small group of individuals,
typically 10 or fewer, who work together. Peer-to-peer networks
are good choices for environments where:
Ø
There are 10 or fewer users.
Ø
Users share resources and printers, but no specialized servers
exist.
Ø
Centralized security is not an issue.
Ø
The organization and the network will experience only limited
growth within the foreseeable future.
Client-Server Networks
As a network grows, a peer-to-peer network will probably no
longer be able to meet the increased demand on shared resources.
To accommodate the increased demand and provide additional
functionality, most networks have dedicated servers. A dedicated
server functions as a server only, not as a client. The
configuration of these servers is optimized to process requests
from network clients.
Client-server networks have become standard models for
networking. As networks increase in size due to the number of
connected computers and the physical distance and traffic
between them, more than one server is usually needed.
Distributing the network tasks among several servers ensures
that each task is performed as efficiently as possible. Also,
with the servers performing the network tasks, the workload on
the individual computers is reduced.