What type of network where computers act as server and other act as clients computer provides service to other computers when they request it?

Unlike operating systems, such as Windows, that are designed for single users to control one computer, network operating systems (NOS) coordinate the activities of multiple computers across a network. The network operating system acts as a director to keep the network running smoothly.

The two major types of network operating systems are:

• Peer-to-Peer
• Client/Server

Nearly all modern networks are a combination of both. The networking design can be considered independent of the servers and workstations that will share it.

Peer-to-Peer

Peer-to-peer network operating systems allow users to share resources and files located on their computers and to access shared resources found on other computers. However, they do not have a file server or a centralized management source (See fig. 1). In a peer-to-peer network, all computers are considered equal; they all have the same abilities to use the resources available on the network. Peer-to-peer networks are designed primarily for small to medium local area networks. Nearly all modern desktop operating systems, such as Macintosh OSX, Linux, and Windows, can function as peer-to-peer network operating systems.

Fig. 1. Peer-to-peer network

Advantages of a peer-to-peer network:

• Less initial expense - No need for a dedicated server.
• Setup - An operating system (such as Windows XP) already in place may only need to be reconfigured for peer-to-peer operations.

Disadvantages of a peer-to-peer network:

• Decentralized - No central repository for files and applications.
• Security - Does not provide the security available on a client/server network.

Client/Server

Client/server network operating systems allow the network to centralize functions and applications in one or more dedicated file servers (See fig. 2). The file servers become the heart of the system, providing access to resources and providing security. Individual workstations (clients) have access to the resources available on the file servers. The network operating system provides the mechanism to integrate all the components of the network and allow multiple users to simultaneously share the same resources irrespective of physical location. UNIX/Linux and the Microsoft family of Windows Servers are examples of client/server network operating systems.

Fig. 2. Client/server network

Advantages of a client/server network:

• Centralized - Resources and data security are controlled through the server.
• Scalability - Any or all elements can be replaced individually as needs increase.
• Flexibility - New technology can be easily integrated into system.
• Interoperability - All components (client/network/server) work together.
• Accessibility - Server can be accessed remotely and across multiple platforms.

Disadvantages of a client/server network:

• Expense - Requires initial investment in dedicated server.
• Maintenance - Large networks will require a staff to ensure efficient operation.
• Dependence - When server goes down, operations will cease across the network.

Network Operating System Software

The following links include some of the more popular peer-to-peer and client/server network operating systems.

• Macintosh OS X
• Microsoft Windows Server
• UNIX/Linux

When it comes to network architecture, "client-server" and "peer-to-peer" are two common terms. Both client-server and peer-to-peer networks connect computers so that they can share resources such as data files and applications, but they work in a different way. Read on to dig deeper into their features and differences.

Client-Server Network

In a client–server network, there are at least a dedicated central server that controls the network, and a number of clients that connect to the server to carry out specific tasks.

A client-server network can have more than one central server, each performing a specific function. Functions may include user access, data storage, internet connection management, network traffic monitoring etc.

Multiple clients connect to one central server. A client is a computer or computer-controlled device that gives users access to data on the remote server. Types of clients include smartphones, desktop computers, laptops etc.

Benefits of a Client-Server Network

The following list shows the key benefits of using a client-server network:

• Centralized management of servers makes it easier for IT teams to update data files accessible to users only by making changes in a central location. They can also monitor data from a single server to anticipate potential problems.

• When stored on a single server rather than across multiple clients, critical information can be better protected from external threats, meaning an increased level of security.

• New features can be added to a server without having to interrupt normal operations of other devices.

• Data shared through a client-server network can be used by all the clients, and can be recovered more easily than through a decentralized server network.

Limits of a Client-Server Network

Here are the limits of using a client-server model:

• Central servers can be pricey to buy and maintain. The overall set-up cost of a client-server network is also high.

• A client-server network requires a great level of expertise from network technicians to configure and manage both the server hardware and software.

• The central server's failure will probably disrupt all computers or other devices across the client-server network.

Peer-to-Peer Network

In a peer-to-peer network, there is no central server controlling the network. Instead, all the computers in the network are connected to one another and share resources such as files, applications, and programs. In a peer-to-peer network, each computer can either be a client or a server as it can request or provide services.

Each computer is called a peer and has the same capabilities and access rights. No peer has control over another. For example, a printer on one computer can be used by any other computer on the network. Likewise, one computer in the network can access or delete data from other computers.

Because resource management and network security are not controlled centrally, backups are needed locally for each computer. Peers can communicate directly with each other. There are no restrictions if you want to add a device to a peer-to-peer network.

Benefits of a Peer-to-Peer Network

The following list shows the key benefits of using a peer-to-peer network:

• File sharing becomes easy. For example, files can be shared over long distances and be accessed anytime in an advanced peer-to-peer network.

• You don't need to invest in central servers when setting up a peer-to-peer network. In addition, no full-time system administrator is required.

• New clients can be added easily to a peer-to-peer network, which makes the network more flexible and scalable.

• If a single computer malfunctions, other computers in a peer-to-peer network will continue to function. This also prevents traffic bottlenecks since traffic is distributed across multiple computers.

• A peer-to-peer network enables collaboration between different clients that perform different functions, which benefits the whole network.

Limits of a Peer-to-Peer Network

Here are the limits of using a peer-to-peer model:

• Because security is managed by individual computers, not on the network as a whole, peer-to-peer networks are typically less secure.

• Each computer needs its own backup system and anti-virus software. This may add to the overall cost of running a peer-to-peer network.

• Performance and system-wide services provided may be slower since each computer carries out more than one task and can be accessed by other computers.

Now let's move on to the discussion on key differences between client-server and peer-to-peer networks. The comparison chart below will give you a clear picture.

Conclusion

Both client-server network and peer-to-peer network have their own advantages and limits. And both models can bring out good performance if used in suitable environments. You will have to weigh the pros and cons of each network model to decide on which to implement.