Introduction

A peer-to-peer network is an information technology organization that permits two or more computer systems to connect and share data without requiring a separate server or software. Workplaces may set up a P2P network by clicking computers into a related design or a created network.

Definition

A peer-to-peer network is one in which two or more computers share files and access devices such as printers without a separate server computer or server.

Some significant features of the Peer-to-Peer network

Each computer in a P2P network provides properties to the network and consumes properties that the network offers. Resources such as files, printers, storage, bandwidth, and processing power can be shared between various computers in the network.

Once set up, this network is easy to bond, and position-sharing authorizations on each computer control access. It also accesses the server and can be managed by conveying passwords to specific properties.

Some networks also form by overlaying a computer-generated network on a physical web. It uses the physical connection to transfer data, while the computer-generated link allows the network computers to communicate.

Advantages of Peer-to-Peer Network

 1. Price

The general price of building and maintaining a peer-to-peer network is relatively reasonable, and its cost has been seriously reduced because there is no chief configuration. Therefore, the Windows server expenditures are not compulsory for each user and should be done only once.

2 Reliability

This network is not dependent on a central system. This means that the computers can function independently, and if one part of the network fails, it will not disrupt other parts. Only the user will not be able to access those files.

3. Implementation of peer-to-peer

It is mainly accessible to set up a peer-to-peer network requiring data, and a switch is needed for the linking. It also connects the computers to manage themselves, so there should be rarer configurations. However, it needs some specialized software.

 4. Scalability

P2P networking has one of the best scalability features. The network’s performance will remain unchanged even if additional clients are supplementary. Sometimes, more users tend to share a single file. In this case, the web will increase the availability of bandwidth.

 5. Administration

There is no need for any specific network administrator since all the users are given the right to manage their system. They can choose what type of files they are prepared to share.

 6. Server Requirement

In peer-to-peer networking, each connected computer acts as a server and a workstation. Therefore, there is no need to use a dedicated server. All authorized users can access the required files using their respective client computers. It may lead to saving more costs.

7. Resource Sharing

In P2P networking, the resources are shared equally among all the users. The connected devices can provide and consume resources at the same time. Also, this network can be used for locating and downloading online files simply.

Disadvantages of Peer-to-Peer

1. Decentralization

Peer-to-peer networking lacks the feature of centralization. There is no central server; thus, files are stored on individual machines. The entire network accessibility is not in the hands of a single person, making it more challenging for the users to locate and find files. If the search is finalized through each database, the users could waste a lot of time.

2. Performance of peer-to-peer

Performance is an additional issue faced by this network. Once the number of devices connecting the network increases, there will be performance damage since other users are accessing each computer. Hence, the P2P network doesn’t work well with growing networks.

3. Security

Security for individual files is comparatively less in peer-to-peer networking. There is no security other than assigning permissions. Even if the permissions are set, anyone with access to it can log on. Some users aren’t even required to log on from their respective workstations.

4. Remote Access

In some cases, unsecured types of codes can be present on a particular terminal. If this is the case, there are possibilities where remote users will access files on a network without proper permissions. This can lead to a cooperative network.

5. Backup Recovery

Backup is complex in P2P networks since the data is not centralized. It is saved on various systems. Therefore, backup needs to be done unconnectedly on each computer. Or else there should be a backup system for every computer.

6. Virus Attacks

Peer-to-peer networks are more vulnerable to malware and virus attacks since each connected computer is independent of the other. If one of the computers tends to get virus-infected, it could quickly spread to the remaining computers, even if they are protected through antivirus or firewall software. Therefore, each user must ensure their system is protected against viruses.

 7. Illegal Content of peer-to-peer

Most often, peer networks transfer copyrighted content like movies and music by implementing it into torrents. Due to this, an internet ban, notice from content writers, or even arrest is possible. That is why P2P networks are less preferred among some companies and service providers.

Conclusion

In the above article, peer-to-peer, we have discussed some essential points like its function, drawbacks, benefits, and more. If you want to know more, please visit our web site.