1.3.3.11/12 Client-server and Peer-to-peer networks

Question 1

What is the Client-server network model? How does it work?

Answer 1

Computers take on the role of either client or the central server. Clients can request services from the server. Servers then respond and act on the service.

It is referred to as a centralized server as these client computer systems communicate with a central server, responding to all the clients.

Question 2

What services can administrators of servers offer?

Answer 2

Storing data

Print documents

Host websites

Email services

Regular back-ups

Question 3

What are the positives of client-server networks?

Answer 3

• Files can be shared among users very easily
• Updates to the software and security can be done seamlessly as the server system can alter all of the client computers, updating all systems with a change on one central system. The updates can be managed centrally. This saves time.
• Client-server networks are very easy to monitor. Server computer can oversee operations and requests of clients so that no one breaks the terms and conditions.
• User accounts (clients) can be managed centrally. Administrators (server) can retrieve lost files and passwords

Question 4

What are the negatives of client-server networks?

Answer 4

• These servers are susceptible to cyber-attacks, especially ransomware and denial-of-service (DOS attacks).
• These kinds of servers are typically very expensive.
• The potential of a shutdown becomes more significant; If the server disconnects or shuts down, no one is able to access the contents of the network.
• Requires IT specialists to maintain

Question 5

What is the Peer-to-Peer network model? How does it work?

Answer 5

Each computer system, referred to in this model as a peer, is linked directly to each other, storing files and executing other options among each other without relying on a centralised server. Each peer is thus responsible for their own maintenance and connection to the network.

Each peer is equal.

There is a logical connection between each peer but they are all connected to a switch.

Services can be achieved if the respective peer that has access to that service is online.

Question 6

What are P2P servers commonly used for?

Answer 6

• Transferring files
• Streaming content onto other systems
• Wireless printing
• Bluetooth devices (speakers, etc.)

Question 7

What are the positives of Peer-to-Peer networks?

Answer 7

• P2P is cheaper and easier to construct than client-server networks because no specific, expensive hardware is needed.
• If one peer fails, other peer computer systems can still continue their operations (No dependence on one computer)
• Peer-to-Peer is easy to set up

Question 8

What are the negatives of Peer-to-Peer networks?

Answer 8

• A peer can lose their connection at any time
• Files aren’t distributed as efficiently as on client-server models. Files must be duplicated to share the file among peers, which raises the likelihood of out-of-date copies of the document.
• There is no central management and is thus less secure.
• Can be difficult to maintain a well-ordered file store.

Question 9

What are the differences between Client-server networks and Peer-to-Peer networks?

Answer 9

• Client-server networks are more expensive than P2P
• P2P is easier to set up than Client-server
• The shutdown of a server in a client-server model means no client computers can access the network, while the failure of a Peer in P2P still means the other peers can function
• Client-server networks are more susceptible to cyber attacks
• Software and Security updates are done much easier and faster on Client-server networks compared to P2P
• Files are distributed easier on Client-server networks
• Client-server networks are managed centrally and P2P is not. Client-server networks are more controlled as a result.