NETWORKS: WHEN DO YOU NEED ONE.
Networks can allow computers, and other equipment to talk to each other. There are a number of different types of networks, and it's important to find the right one to fit your needs so that you don't waste time and money with one that is too complex for your needs, or one that doesn't fulfill your needs.
PEER TO PEER NETWORK (PPN)
If you only need to share a printer or an internet connection, a simple Peer-to Peer Network may be all you need.
In a Peer to Peer Network(PPN) all computers are equal and there is no hierarchy. There is no server. All the computers handle the security and administration of the network.
ADVANTAGES OF PPN
Low set up costs
Similar advantages of Client Server Network for small number of computers
LIMITATIONS OF PPN
Size: PPNs are designed for connecting a small number of computers and tend to run into problems at around 10 – 15 computers.
Security: There is less control over security (compared to having a server). As there is no hierarchy in computers Peer 1 will have access to Peer 4 (unless folders are password protected). This will require increased training for staff to prevent problems.
Growth: if your organisation is growing rapidly, it will outgrow the PPN very quickly
Training: Users handle administration in a PPN and so will need to be trained on ow to share files, folders, and printers. Also on a PPN suddenly shutting down your computer may cause a colleague to be unable to print.
Hosting Resources: Each computer that attaches to another computer for printing or file sharing etc takes up system resources on the hosting computer. The effect? This could cause that computer to slow down due to the drain. If this is happening it is time to start thinking about a dedicated server.
Conclusion
A peer-to-peer network is sometimes the perfect (and cheap) solution for connecting the computers at a small nonprofit. However, peer-to-peer networking has its limitations, and your organisation should tread with caution to avoid headaches -- security issues, hardware inadequacies, backup problems, etc. -- down the road.
CLIENT SERVER NETWORK (CSN)
When a peer-to-peer network begins to become more trouble than it is worth ie your computers start to slow down, you can never find the file you are looking for, and security is non-existent, it is probably time to switch to a client-server network by bringing in a dedicated server to handle the load.
In this model there is a dedicated unit – namely the server – and client units – namely the computers connected to the server. The server is called "dedicated" because it is optimised to serve requests from the "client" computers quickly.
Advantages of CSN
Size and Growth are managed without affecting other Clients in the network
Increased efficiency as the server software
Increased security
Training required but more specific and errors controllable.
Disadvantages of CSN
Higher set up costs
Conclusion
The CSN is better for larger organisations. It will provide you with more flexibility than PPNs as your needs change. Also as network traffic increases (ie more staff), you can add another server to handle the additional load. Most importantly a CSN is much easier to secure and backup, improving the reliability and confidentiality of your data.
Most importantly, a client-server network is much easier to secure and back up, greatly improving the reliability and confidentiality of your data.
Sourced: www.techsoup.org.uk
Article date: April 22, 2003
