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3.1.1 Network Resources - Describe the features of a peer-to-peer (P2P)…
3.1.1 Network Resources - Describe the features of a peer-to-peer (P2P) and server-based networks
Network Relationships
Definition
Describes the way two computer systems work together when attached to the same network
Most networks operate with a mixture of network relationships depending on the functions being performed.
The relationship can either be:
Server-Based
Peer-to-Peer
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Network
Definition
A simple network that provides shared resources, such as printers and storage. All computers have equal status and there is no central server.
The name comes from the fact that all computers on these networks have equal status and can send data to and from each other.
Suitable for a company with just a few computers.
Each computer is a supplier of resources and consumer of resources.
Each station has equal status - there is no high spec server in control of the network.
Software and data may be held on any of the computers and made available to any other machine on the network.
Each station can communicate directly with another without going through a file server.
Most appropriate when network users mostly on their own work but occasionally need to share data or communicate with each other.
Advantages
No dependency on a single computer
- some aspects less likely to have whole network failure.
Cheaper to set up as requires less expensive hardware
Easy to maintain
- Does not require any specialist staff.
Disadvantages
Users need to manage their own backups
- due to no central file server.
Difficult to maintain a well order file store
- is going to have lot of files all stored in different manners.
Less secure
- due to no username and password
Server-Based Network
Definition
A network organised around one or more servers. The sever maintains a database of authorised users, passwords and access rights.
Used in larger organisation. At least one computer performs the role of a fileserver.
Role of File Server
Provides security in terms of a centralised backup of he whole system daily and a centralised firewall to prevent unauthorised access from outside and deals with internet security issues.
Provides access to all the applications stored centrally.
Shares files/folders with group of users using access rights (read, write, read and write) which say who is allowed access to particular files.
Allocates resources to users depending on their user rights.
Verifies User logins
Stores all data and programs centrally and provides increased security because a logon with usernames and passwords is managed central.
Advantages
Easier to take backups of all shared data
Easier to install software updates to all computers
Easier to maintain security of files
Disadvantages
Requires IT specialists to maintain
The server is a single point of failure
- Users will lose access if the server fails.
Can be expensive to set up and maintain