15 June 2020

Difference Between Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer Network

Both network are depends on the environment which network model to implement, each model has its own strength and flaws. Here this article gives information about the difference between client-server and peers to peer networks to better understand this topic.


What is a client-server network?


The client servers network focuses on information sharing. Though the server can share its resources with clients, clients do not share their resources such as computing power on hard drive space with the network.


What is a peer to peer network?


A peer to peer network is a group of computer or computer systems that are connected to each other through the internet. Files can be shared directly between their systems on the network without the need for a central server.

The main key difference between client-server and peer to peer network:


  • In the client-server model, data is stored on a centralized server while in peer to peer each peer has its own data.
  • Client-server networks main focus on information sharing, while peer to peer model focuses on connectivity.
  • In the client-server model, there is a dedicated server and specific clients, While in Peer to peer each node can act as both server and client.
  • In the client-server model, sharing the information is more important, but in peer to peer model connectivity between peers is more important.
  • In the client-server model, the server provides services to the client, In peer to peer can provide service and can also request for the services.
  • In a client-server network client and server both are differentiated, specific server and client and present, While in peer to peer client and server are not differentiated.
  • The client-server model is more expensive to implement than peer to peer networks.
  • The n client-server model,  model is more scalable and stable than peer to peer.
  • A client-server network is used for both small and large networks, While in peer to peer network is generally suited for a small network with fewer than 10 computers.
  • The client-server model is less reliable, while in peer to peer network is more reliable.
  • In client-server multiple requests for service from a server and therefore, the access time for a service is higher, While the service providing nodes are distributed, in peer to peer network, the service requesting node does need to wait long.
  • Client-server network very much secure when compared to the peer to peer network, while in peer to peer network is less secure when compared to client-server network.
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