Question

What is the difference between Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer network architectures?

Hint:

Remember: {Client-Server = Central control}, {P2P = Equal nodes sharing resources directly}.

Answer 1

Concept: Network architecture defines how devices communicate and share resources in a network. Two common architectures are:

• Client-Server Architecture
• Peer-to-Peer Architecture

Step 1: Client-Server Architecture.

• A central server manages data, services, and security.
• Clients request resources from the server.
• Server controls access and processing.
• Examples: Web servers, email servers, banking systems.

Step 2: Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture.

• No central server; all computers are equal peers.
• Each device can act as both client and server.
• Resources are shared directly between devices.
• Examples: File sharing networks, small home networks.

Step 3: Key Differences.

• Control: Centralized in Client-Server, decentralized in P2P.
• Security: Higher in Client-Server due to central control.
• Cost: Higher in Client-Server (server required), lower in P2P.
• Scalability: Client-Server handles large networks better.

Step 4: Summary.
\[ \text{Client-Server} \rightarrow \text{Centralized management} \] \[ \text{Peer-to-Peer} \rightarrow \text{Decentralized sharing} \] Conclusion:
Client-Server architecture relies on a central server for control and management, whereas Peer-to-Peer architecture allows direct communication and resource sharing among all nodes.