Post

Network Models

Posted Updated
By sahil rangari
2 min read
Network Models

1: Network Models

Definition: P2P (Peer-to-Peer) Network

  • In a P2P (Peer-to-Peer) network, each computer manages its own resources and security — there is no central server.
  • All computers (also called nodes or hosts) form a logical group to share resources such as files, printers, etc.

🔹 Key Features

  • ❌ No centralized control – all nodes operate independently.
  • 💻 Nodes/Hosts = Computers or devices in the network that share data.
  • 🔁 Resource Sharing = Sharing files, printers, internet, and more.

🔹 Supported Devices/Operating Systems

  • Desktops/Laptops: Windows, Linux, macOS, ChromeOS
  • Mobile/Tablets: Android, iOS, ChromeOS

🔹 Diagram Reference

image.png

  • The diagram represents a Mesh Topology: each device is connected to multiple others, indicated by lines showing direct connections.

🔹 Author’s Insight

  • P2P is a decentralized model.
  • Best suited for small or simple networks.
  • Every computer is a peer, with equal responsibilities.

🧠 **Summary **

In a P2P network, every computer acts independently—there’s no central authority. Each device manages its own security and resources. Figure 1-1 illustrates its mesh-style topology. It’s ideal for simple, decentralized setups.

Definition: Client–Server Network

  • The Client–Server model is a centralized network where a server controls resources and user access.
  • The server runs a Network Operating System (NOS) and manages the network via a central database (e.g., Active Directory).

🔹 Core Components

  • NOS Examples: Windows Server, Ubuntu Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux

  • Database: Stores information like users, passwords, and shared resources.

    In Microsoft networks, a common example is Active Directory (AD).

🔹 Client & Server Roles

  • Server: Provides services and manages the central database.
  • Client: Sends requests to the server (e.g., for files, printers).
  • Clients do not directly access each other — all communication goes through the server.

🔹 Access Control

  • Centralized control using Active Directory (in Microsoft environments).
  • Users can log in from any connected device and access permitted resources.

🔹 Diagram Reference

image1.png

  • The diagram shows a Windows Server domain controller with connected clients (Windows, macOS, Ubuntu, etc.).
  • Physically, the network often uses a Star Topology (with the server as the central hub).

🔹 Advantages

  • ✅ Centralized user and resource management
  • ✅ Controlled and secure resource sharing
  • ✅ Superior security, scalability, and efficiency compared to P2P

🧠 **Summary **

The Client–Server model is a centralized network setup where the server manages everything using a NOS and a central database (like Active Directory). Clients send requests but the server maintains control. This model is more powerful than P2P and ideal for larger networks. Figure 1-2 (Pg 5) illustrates this structure.

Computer Network, Introduction to Networking
peer-to-peer client-server
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.