Client-server vs peer-to-peer models in Computer Networks - Quick Revision & Key Differences

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the main role of a server in the client-server model?

The server provides resources or services to clients, such as files, web pages, or applications. It waits for requests and responds to them.

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How do peers communicate in a peer-to-peer (P2P) network?

In a P2P network, each peer can act as both a client and a server, sharing resources directly with other peers without a central server.

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Name one advantage of the client-server model.

It centralizes control and management, making it easier to secure and maintain resources.

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What is a key disadvantage of peer-to-peer networks?

They can be less secure and harder to manage because there is no central control over the shared resources.

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Which model is typically used for websites and email services: client-server or peer-to-peer?

Client-server model is used because it relies on central servers to provide services to many clients.

In a client-server model, who initiates the communication?

A Server

B Neither

C Both at the same time

D Client

The client starts the communication by sending a request to the server.

Which model allows all devices to share resources equally?

A Client-server

B Cloud computing

C Peer-to-peer

D Mainframe

Peer-to-peer networks let all devices share resources directly without a central server.

What is a common use of the client-server model?

A File sharing between friends

B Hosting websites

C Bluetooth device connection

D Offline gaming

Websites are hosted on servers that clients access, which is a client-server setup.

Which model can be more vulnerable to security risks due to lack of central control?

A Peer-to-peer

B Client-server

C Both equally

D Neither

Peer-to-peer networks lack central control, making security harder to enforce.

In which model does a central server manage data and resources?

A Client-server

B Peer-to-peer

C Mesh network

D Ad hoc network

The client-server model uses a central server to manage resources.

Explain the main differences between client-server and peer-to-peer network models.

Think about who provides resources and how devices connect.

Describe one advantage and one disadvantage of the peer-to-peer model.

Consider ease of sharing and control.