Networks

1
Networks

• Client/Server
• And
• Peer-to-Peer

2
Client/Server Networks

• In a client/server network, the server computers
  manage the resources on a network and perform a
  variety of functions for the client computers.
• Mainly used
• in businesses.

3
Client Computers

• Usually personal computers or workstations.
• They are linked to the server computer.

4
Server Computers

• Server computers can be as small as a personal
  computer or it can be as large as a
  supercomputer.
• The central computer(s) in a client/server
  network.

5
Advantages and Disadvantages of Client/Server
Networking

• Advantages include
• Centralization - Resources and data security are
  controlled through the server.
• Scalability - Any or all elements can be replaced
  individually as needs increase.
• Flexibility - New technology can be easily
  integrated into system.
• Interoperability - All components
  (client/network/server) work together.
• Accessibility - Server can be accessed remotely
  and across multiple platforms.

• Disadvantages include
• Expense - Requires initial investment in
  dedicated server.
• Maintenance - Large networks will require a staff
  to ensure efficient operation.
• Dependence - When server goes down, operations
  will cease across the network.

6
Peer-to-Peer Networks

• In peer-to-peer networks, all computers are
  equal. Any computer can be a client to another
  computer or any computer can share files with any
  other computer.
• There is no file server or centralized computer.

7
Advantages and Disadvantages of Peer-to-Peer
Networking

• Advantages
• Less initial expense - No need for a dedicated
  server.
• Setup - An operating system (such as Windows XP)
  already in place may only need to be reconfigured
  for peer-to-peer operations.

• Disadvantages
• Decentralized - No central repository for files
  and applications.
• Security - Does not provide the security
  available on a client/server network.

8
Where are they used?

• Peer-to-peer networks are used mainly for small
  numbers of personal computers. Examples include
  AppleShare and Windows for Workgroups
• Client/server networks are used for mainly for
  business because they can link hundreds of
  clients. Examples include Novell Netware and
  Windows 2000 Server.

9
Main Differences

• The main differences include
• Size of the Network
• Security
• Setup of file sharing
• Expenses
• Maintenance

10
Resources

• Computers Information Technology in Perspective
  by Long and Long
• Florida Center for Instructional Technology
  College of Education