1.7 Network Architecture

 

1.7 Network Architecture

Network architecture is the design or structure of a computer network that determines how devices are connected, communicate, and share resources.

 

There are two types of network architecture:

Client-Server Network

Peer-to-Peer Network

 

1.7.1 Client-Server Network

v A client-server network is a network architecture in which one or more powerful central computers (servers) provide services, resources, and data to other computers (clients).

v A server is a powerful computer that manages network resources and provides services to client computers.

v A client is a computer that requests and uses the services and resources provided by the server.

v All communication and resource sharing take place through the central server.

v In a client-server network, clients send requests to the central server, which processes the requests and provides the required services, resources, or data.

 

Features

v A central server controls and manages the network.

v Centralized backup of data is possible.

v Dedicated servers provide faster and more efficient resource sharing.

v It provides better security because the server centrally manages access to resources.

v Multiple clients can access services from the same server.

 

Advantages

v Centralized management of the network.

v Better security and access control.

v Easy backup and recovery of data.

v Faster and efficient resource sharing.

v Suitable for large organizations.

 

Disadvantages

v If the server fails, the entire network may stop working.

v Installation and maintenance are expensive.

v Requires a dedicated server and a network administrator.

 

Common server operating systems include Microsoft Windows Server, Ubuntu Server, CentOS, and UNIX.

Real-Life Example

 

In a school computer lab, students use client computers to access files, printers, and the Internet through a central server.

 

Network Administrator

A network administrator is a person who manages, maintains, and secures a computer network.

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.7.2 Peer-to-Peer Network

v A peer-to-peer (P2P) network is a network architecture in which all computers (peers) are equal and can communicate and share resources directly without a central server.

v A peer is a computer that can both provide and use shared resources such as files, printers, and software.

v In a peer-to-peer network, each computer acts as both a client and a server, sharing files, printers, and other resources directly with other computers without a central server.

Features

v All computers have equal roles and responsibilities.

v Resources such as files, hardware, and software can be shared directly.

v A network administrator is not required because each user manages their own shared resources.

v The failure of one computer does not affect the functioning of other computers.

v It is suitable for small networks, such as homes and small offices.

Advantages

v Easy to install and set up.

v Low installation and maintenance cost.

v Does not require a dedicated server.

v Each user can manage their own resources.

v Suitable for small organizations and home networks.

Disadvantages

v Security is weaker because there is no central control.

v Data backup must be managed by individual users.

v Managing resources becomes difficult as the network grows.

v Not suitable for large organizations.

 

v Common operating systems used in peer-to-peer networks include Microsoft Windows, macOS, Ubuntu (Linux), and Fedora (Linux).

v Examples of peer-to-peer networks include home networks, small offices, computer labs, and small businesses.

v In a small office, employees can directly share files and printers with each other without using a central server.

Differentiate between Client-Server Network and Peer-to-Peer Network.

Basis	Client-Server Network	Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Network
Definition	A network architecture in which one or more servers provide services and resources to client computers.	A network architecture in which all computers are equal and share resources directly without a central server.
Resource Sharing	Resources are shared through the server.	Resources are shared directly between computers.
Security	Provides better security because the server controls access to resources.	Provides less security because each computer manages its own resources.
Network Administrator	Requires a network administrator.	Does not require a network administrator.
Cost	More expensive because a dedicated server is required.	Less expensive because no dedicated server is needed.
Suitable for	Large organizations and networks with many users.	Small networks with a few computers.
Examples	Schools, banks, hospitals, offices, and government organizations.	Home networks, small offices, small computer labs, and small businesses.