Peer-to-Peer Networking

Question 1

What is a peer-to-a peer network?

Answer 1

• A peer-to-a peer network has no central server
• Suitable for small companies with fewer computers
• No central server controls files or security all computer can easily see files on all other computers
• All computers can communicate with each other without going through a server
• If a computer is switched off data cannot be retrieved.

Question 2

What is an example of Peer - to - peer architecture?

Answer 2

• BBC iPlayer uses P2P networking – this means thousands of people downloading, data can be passed between computers rather than just from the server
• For companies it can cut down the bandwidth

Question 3

What is an client server model?

Answer 3

A client–server model is where the workstations in any network design use the server to provide a service.

Question 4

What is an client?

Answer 4

Client is a computer or workstation on a typical network.

Question 5

What is a File server?

Answer 5

File server is the computer with the main processing power and storage that interacts with the clients.

Question 6

What are the advantages of client server and peer-to-peer networking?

Answer 6

• The system facilitates a centralised backup.
• Centralised data which is more consistent as there is only one copy in use. Any lost data can be restored centrally for all users.
• Security policies for access control and associated usernames are managed centrally.

Question 7

What are the disadvantages of client server and peer-to-peer networking?

Answer 7

• Server failure can cause the whole network to be inoperative.
• Network management is a skilled and necessary task for system maintenance.
• It is expensive and time-consuming to implement, due to the cost of a network operating system, which is usually priced by the number of clients and the labour involved in the initial set-up.

Question 8

How is Peer-to-peer networks different from a client-server network?

Answer 8

Peer-to-peer networks are different from client–server networks as they do not have special workstations which are used as servers. Instead any workstation on the network can load information from the hard disk or use a local printer for any other workstation, as all workstations have equal status.

Question 9

Are peer-to-peer networks used on LANs or WANs?

Answer 9

Peer-to-peer networks are commonly used as local area networks (LANs) for general administration by either small businesses or in the home