Stands for "Peer to Peer." In a P2P network, the "peers" are computer systems which are connected to each other via the Internet. Files can be shared directly between systems on the network without the need of a central server. In other words, each computer on a P2P network becomes a file server as well as a client.

The advantages of peer to peer network

• Easier to set up

• In peer-to-peer networks all nodes are act as server as well as client therefore no need of dedicated server.

• The peer to peer network is less expensive.

• Peer to peer network is easier to set up and use this means that you can spend less time in the configuration and implementation of peer to peer network.

• It is not require for the peer to peer network to use the dedicated server computer. Any computer on the network can function as both a network server and a user workstation.

 The disadvantages of peer to peer network

• A computer can be accessed anytime.

• Network security has to be applied to each computer separately.

• Backup has to be performed on each computer separately.

• No centralized server is available to manage and control the access of data.

• Users have to use separate passwords on each computer in the network.

• As with most network systems, unsecure and unsigned codes may allow remote access to files on a victim's computer or even compromise the entire network

    Advantages

• Centralization of control: access, resources and integrity of the data are controlled by the dedicated server so that a program or unauthorized client cannot damage the system. This centralization also facilitates task of updating data or other resources (better than the networks P2P).

• Scalability: You can increase the capacity of clients and servers separately. Any element can be increased (or enhanced) at any time, or you can add new nodes to the network (clients or servers).

• Easy maintenance: distribute the roles and responsibilities to several standalone computers, you can replace, repair, upgrade, or even move a server, while  customers will not be affected by that change (or minimally affect). This independence of the changes is also known as encapsulation.

• Expence: Require initial investment in dedicated server.

• Maintainece: Large network will require a staff to ensure efficient operation.

• Cost : It is very expensive to install and manage this type of computing.