How do peer-to-peer networks function differently from client-server networks?

Peer-to-peer networks function differently from client-server networks by distributing tasks and workloads among all devices equally.

In a client-server network, there is a clear distinction between the server, which provides resources or services, and the clients, which request and consume these services. The server is a powerful computer that stores the files, databases, and applications that the clients need. The clients are typically less powerful devices, such as personal computers, tablets, or smartphones. The server processes requests from the clients and sends back the requested data or services. This centralised structure makes it easier to manage and control the network, but it also creates a single point of failure. If the server goes down, the entire network is affected.

On the other hand, in a peer-to-peer (P2P) network, all devices, or 'peers', are equal. There is no central server. Instead, each peer shares a portion of its own resources, such as processing power, disk storage, or network bandwidth, with the other peers. This shared pool of resources is used to handle tasks and workloads. When a peer needs a file or a service, it sends a request to the network, and the peer that has the requested resource provides it directly. This decentralised structure makes P2P networks highly scalable and resilient. If one peer goes down, the network can still function because the other peers can pick up the slack.

However, P2P networks also have their challenges. Because there is no central authority, it can be harder to manage and secure a P2P network. Each peer is responsible for its own security, and if one peer is compromised, it can potentially affect the entire network. Furthermore, because tasks and workloads are distributed among all peers, the performance of a P2P network can be affected by the weakest link. If one peer has a slow connection or limited resources, it can slow down the entire network.

In summary, while client-server networks are centralised and easier to manage, they have a single point of failure. P2P networks, on the other hand, are decentralised and resilient, but they can be harder to manage and secure, and their performance can be affected by the weakest link.