The primary difference between these two terms is that, in a peer-to-peer network, every node can ask for assistance and deliver services. While in a client-server network, the client nodes demand services and the server node answers with assistance. Let’s find out some major differences between Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer networks.
You can also read the difference between client OS and server OS.
What is a Client-Server Network?
A client-server network acts as a medium via which consumers access services and resources from a central computer, with the help of WAN (wide-area network) or LAN (local area network). The Client-server network is mainly used for game hosting, web services, and personal networks operated in organisations.
What is Peer to Peer Network?
A peer-to-peer network authorises you to link two or more computers to a single system. It is basically a circulated application architecture that splits tasks between peers. In the networking world, a peer is a node that delivers the exact functionality as another. For example, two PCs in a network are peers.
Difference between Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer Network
S.NO |
Client-Server Network |
Peer-to-Peer Network |
1. | When it comes to a Client-Server Network, clients and servers are distinguished because of the distinctive servers and clients present. | When it comes to the Peer-to-Peer Network, both clients and servers are not distinguished. |
2. | It majorly concentrates on sharing the information. | It majorly concentrates on the connectivity part. |
3. | Here, we mainly prefer the centralised server to keep the data. | Here, every peer stores its own data. |
4. | In the case of the Client-Server network, the server replies to the services which are asked by the client. | In the case of a Peer-to-Peer network, every node can accomplish both request and response. |
5. | The Client-Server network is expensive as compared to the Peer-to-Peer network. | The Peer-to-Peer network is affordable as compared to the Client-Server network. |
6. | They are a more stable network form. | They are comparatively less stable. |
7. | These can be used both in small and large networks. | It is mostly preferred for short networks. |
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