Advantages and Disadvantages of Peer to Peer Network
Advantages and Disadvantages of Peer to Peer Networks for Sharing Computer Data – So that all computers in an area can be connected to each other to share data and information, a system is formed called a computer network.
Based on its function, this network is divided into two types. The first type is client server network and the second type is peer to peer network.
In a client server network there is one computer that acts as a system controller (server) in the network while the other computer acts as a client or recipient.
Unlike the case with peer to peer networks. In peer to peer, all computers in one network can act as a server as well as a client. There is no main computer that manages the network.
This type of network has actually been developed for a long time. In the 1980s, peer to peer networks were widely used on a small scale.
This concept became widely known after Microsoft released Windows for Workgroup. Its popularity is increasing when this concept is applied by file sharing applications on the internet such as Napster.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Peer to Peer Network
With the peer to peer concept, one computer with another computer can share data without going through an intermediary. Then, what are the advantages and disadvantages of this peer to peer network?
Advantages of Peer to Peer Network
In addition to making it easier to share data with other computers in the same area, peer to peer networks have several advantages. The first advantage is in its implementation.
It can be said that this network is very easy to implement and also simple.
To connect the network from one computer to another only requires a network cable or external antenna to transmit data.
The advantage of the next peer to peer network is that there is no need for a main server computer. As previously mentioned, in peer to peer, each computer can act as a server or a client.
Another advantage is that this network only requires two computers. As long as the two computers already have a LAN card function, a peer to peer network connection can already be run.
Because there is no computer that acts as a special server, this network does not require a special server application. What’s more, no special administrator is needed to manage and maintain the network. Everything can be operated alone.
Disadvantages of Peer to Peer Network
In addition to the advantages, peer to peer networks also have disadvantages. One of the drawbacks of a peer to peer network that is somewhat risky is its low level of security.
Because it is easily accessible, it makes the level of security less guaranteed. This is also due to the absence of an administrative system that is enforced in a peer to peer network.
Backing up data must also be done on each computer. Cannot be done through a single computer as can be done in a server to client network.
Not to mention if there is troubleshooting. Since all computers are involved in one communication network system, the troubleshooting process will become more difficult. Plus the data traffic is done.
This can affect the performance of the computer itself because not all computers have the same and adequate specifications.
One of the disadvantages of a peer to peer network is its narrow scope. Keep in mind, peer to peer network is a simple network.
So if you want to apply it in an area with a wide coverage, this network is not suitable and inadequate.
Thus the advantages and disadvantages of peer to peer networks on data sharing networks in computers.
By knowing the advantages and disadvantages, you don’t need to be confused anymore when you are going to create a computer network at school or in the office. Network can be selected as needed.
