3.3 Network Characteristics Flashcards
Peer-to-peer network
benefits/limits
Data is shared directly between systems without requiring a central server.
Each computer is equally responsible for providing data.
It is optimal for sharing files.
This is a simpler than a client server network, however there is no central device to manage security or backups
Star Network
benefits/limits
Each node is connected to a central node that transfers data packets.
The hub/switch looks at the destination address and transfers packets to the intended computer.
B: It has improved security and transfer speeds ,
L: if the central system fails, then the whole network is unstable
Bus network
benefits/limits
The nodes are connected to a bus that transfers data packets and each computer checks the destination address while comparing the computer address. If they don’t match, it moves on but if it does, the data packet is sent to the computer.
B: It is quick to set up which makes it optimal for temporary networks,
L: however there is poor security.
Token Ring Network
benfits/limits
In networks connected in a ring or loop, a token (data packet) is sent around the ring in one direction and works like a bus network.
B: Data collisions are avoided as data is sent in one way
L: but to add a new node, the network must be temporarily shut down.
Mesh network
benefits/limits
Each computer is connected to every other computer. Data packets are sent to the destination address through the quickest path
B: there are alternative paths if one breaks down.
L: because the large amounts of cable it can be hard and expensive to maintain
Client server network
benefits/limits
Clients make a request to a server and a server manages it and responds. The client is completely dependent on the server to provide information, network security and backups.
B: It allows for scalability
L: traffic will cause the network to slow down.
Bus
benefits/limits
A central cable which transfers all the data on the network.
