What is the difference between a peer-to-peer and a client-server network?

A peer-to-peer network consists of two or more computers connected via a hub (or hubs) in order to share data among them. Each user can individually configure his or her computer. A peer-to-peer network is fairly simple and inexpensive to implement, because operating systems like Windows 95, 98, and NT Workstation have built-in workgroup capabilities.

A client-server network is physically similar to a peer-to-peer network, but at least one computer is designated to be a server. Servers employ a high level of security and network resource management. Some features include validating the logins of client machines, ensuring security of folders and files on the network, and managing email and other centralized services. An operating system such as Windows NT Server is required to perform these tasks and services. In addition, network data can be centrally located on the server, instead of spread across multiple client computers.

A client-server network is much more powerful in its capabilities than a peer-to-peer network, but it is usually more costly to implement and requires more attention in administrating it.

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