Network Architectures
Network
architectures is the way network are designed to communicate.
There are 2 type : Peer-to-Peer and Client-Server
Client-server network
Network
in which one or more computers act as a server, and the other computers
(clients) on the network request services from the server.
Peer-to-peer
Network
-Most computers function as clients or
servers.
Example : A computer can act as a server by
sharing a printer it’s connected to and at the same time act as client by
accessing a file shared by another computer on the network.
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
Maintenance - Large networks will require a staff to ensure efficient operation.
Dependence - When server goes down, operations will cease across the network