Advantages of a peer-to-peer network:
- Less startup cost to setup the network architecture - No need for a server.
- Easy to Setup up - An operating system (such as Windows XP)
already in place may only need to be reconfigured for peer-to-peer
operations.
Disadvantages of a peer-to-peer network:
- Decentralized - No central repository for files and applications.
- Less Security - Does not provide the security available on a client/server network.
Advantages of a client-server :
- Centralized - 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 of a client-server :
- 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
