Networking Models: Client-Server vs. Peer-to-Peer
Client-Server Model
- Centralized Architecture: A server provides resources and services, while clients request them.
- Request-Response Pattern: Clients send requests, servers respond.
- Examples: Web browsing, email services, online banking.
In a client-server model, the server acts as a central hub, managing resources and ensuring data consistency across clients.
Advantages of Client-Server Model
- Centralized Control:
- Easier to implement security policies and manage resources.
- Scalability:
- Can be scaled by upgrading server resources or adding more servers.
- Security:
- Centralized security measures offer better protection against unauthorized access.
- Efficiency:
- Servers can be optimized for specific tasks, improving performance.
- Reliability:
- Professional maintenance ensures high uptime.
When designing a client-server network, ensure the server has sufficient resources to handle peak demand, preventing bottlenecks.
Disadvantages of Client-Server Model
- Single Point of Failure:
- If the server goes down, all services become unavailable.
- Cost:
- Requires significant investment in server infrastructure and maintenance.
- Scalability Challenges:
- Scaling up can be expensive and complex.
- Don't assume that adding more clients will automatically scale a client-server network.
- The server's capacity must be considered to avoid performance bottlenecks.
Peer-to-Peer Model
- Decentralized Architecture:
- Each peer acts as both a client and a server.
- Direct Resource Sharing:
- Peers share resources without a central authority.
- Examples:
- File sharing (BitTorrent), blockchain, VoIP services (Skype).
- In a peer-to-peer model, there is no central server.
- Each peer can directly communicate and share resources with other peers.
Advantages of Peer-to-Peer Model
- Decentralization:
- No single point of failure, enhancing resilience.
