Peer To Peer Networking

Question 0

What are 6 advantages to peer to peer networking.

Answer 0

1) cost saving - no server is needed so all the computers can be the same
2) no network manager needed - all users take responsibility for the network
3) easy to set up - they are the simplest of computer networks so an e set up by anyone.
4) there is no reliance on a server - so no worry about the server breaking down.
5) lower operating costs - less setup and maintenance costs
6) peer responsibility - users decide what resources other users can use on their computer.

Question 1

What are peer to peer networks

Answer 1

Peer to peer networks are networks where each computer has the same status and they are able to communicate to each other on equal footing. Any computer in the network can access all resources of any of the other computers in the network. They are used for home network.

Question 2

What are 6 disadvantages to peer to peer networking?

Answer 2

1) Backups cannot be made centrally - this places responsibility on all the users to back up their own data; you cannot be sure all users will do this.
2) users need more IT knowledge as they will be responsible for the files on their own computers.
3) poorer security - resources are shared, so users have to decide what resources of theirs other users on the network can use.
4) some computers may run slowly - those computers that have resources on them that all users use will run slowly.
5) users may find it difficult finding files as they are not organised and held centrally.
6) only suitable for very small networks with typically fewer that 15 computers in the network

Question 3

For which network would you use a peer to peer network, a school with 202 computers or a home network with 3 computers linking up to play a game together

Answer 3

Home network