Network architecture (Models of Computer Network) - Client/Server, Peer to peer, centralized [Computer Science - Grade X - New Syllabus]

 

Network architecture (Models of Computer Network)

The arrangement of the computers on the network which is based on the computing model is called network architecture. Its types are

a)      Centralized computing network

b)     Client / Server Network

c)      Peer to Peer Network

 

Centralized computing network [SQE 2074K]

A centralized computing network is a network in which a central host computer performs data processing and storage on behalf of clients. It is different from client server network as client server network consists of at least one server and one or more client as well as client server provides high security of data and other resources.

 

Client/server network [SLC 2071]

Client/ server network is a type of network architecture that consists of at least one server and one or more clients or workstations, where users do their work. It provides central security administration and the network administrator is responsible for data security and other resources management of the network.

 

Peer-to-peer network [SLC 2071]

Peer-to-Peer network is a group of computers, which function both as servers and workstations to share data, information and other resources of the network. It lacks centralized network administration, where the network administrator needs to manage security on each computer. It provides no reliable security and might put data in higher risks.

 

 

 

 

Client/server network Vs Peer-to-peer network

 

Client/server network	Peer-to-peer network
There is a specific server and specific clients connected to the server.	Clients and server are not distinguished; each node act as client and server.
The client request for service and server respond with the service.	Each node can request for services and can also provide the services.
The data is stored in a centralized server.	Each peer has its own data.
The client-server are expensive to implement.	Peer-to-peer are less expensive to implement.