Networks can be organised using a client-server model (centralised) or a peer-to-peer model (decentralised). Each has advantages and disadvantages depending on the network's purpose and size.
Key points
Definition:Client-Server: servers are powerful computers that control the network and provide services/resources to clients. Clients send requests; servers respond.
Definition:Peer-to-Peer (P2P): all computers have equal status. Each peer can act as both a client AND a server. No central server.
Client-server: centralised management, easier to back up and secure, but server failure affects the whole network.
Peer-to-peer: no central point of failure, easy to set up, but harder to manage security and backups.
Exam Tip:Client-server is better for larger, business networks (centralised control, security). Peer-to-peer is better for small, simple networks.
Common Mistake:Saying peer-to-peer 'has no server'. Each peer ACTS as a server — it can provide resources to other peers.
Exam Example:'Identify the client and server — an artist uploads images to a website.' Client = the artist's computer (sends the request). Server = the web server (receives and stores the images).
Exam Tip:A 'website' is NOT a computer — don't say 'the website is the server'. The WEB SERVER that hosts the website is the server.