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Client–Server vs Peer-to-Peer Networks

Introduction

Network architecture defines how computers share resources and communicate. Questions comparing Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer networks are common in banking and SSC exams because they test conceptual understanding and real-world application.

Pattern: Client–Server vs Peer-to-Peer Networks

Pattern: Client–Server vs Peer-to-Peer Networks

Client-Server networks use a central server to control resources, while Peer-to-Peer networks allow all computers to share resources equally without a central server.

Step-by-Step Example

Question

In which type of network does a dedicated central computer manage resources and provide services to other computers?

Options:
A. Peer-to-Peer network
B. Distributed network
C. Client-Server network
D. Ring network

Solution

  1. Step 1: Identify the control structure

    The question highlights a dedicated central computer managing resources.

  2. Step 2: Match with network architecture

    In a Client-Server network, the server centrally controls data and services.

  3. Final Answer:

    Client-Server network → Option C

  4. Quick Check:

    Central server presence confirms Client-Server architecture ✅

Quick Variations

• Network with no central control → Peer-to-Peer

• Network used in banks and large organisations → Client-Server

• Home file sharing between computers → Peer-to-Peer

Trick to Always Use

  • Step 1 → Central control and security → Client-Server
  • Step 2 → Equal status for all computers → Peer-to-Peer

Summary

  • Client-Server networks have a central server.
  • Peer-to-Peer networks have no dedicated server.
  • Client-Server offers better security and control.
  • Peer-to-Peer is simple and low-cost.

Example to remember:
Bank network → Client-Server, Home sharing → Peer-to-Peer

Practice

(1/5)
1. In which type of network do all computers have equal status and can share resources directly with each other?
easy
A. Peer-to-Peer network
B. Client-Server network
C. Star network
D. Ring network

Solution

  1. Step 1: Identify control structure

    The question mentions equal status for all computers.

  2. Step 2: Match with network type

    In a Peer-to-Peer network, all computers can act as both client and server.

  3. Final Answer:

    Peer-to-Peer network → Option A

  4. Quick Check:

    No central server indicates Peer-to-Peer architecture ✅
Hint: Equal computers with no server = Peer-to-Peer.
Common Mistakes: Assuming a server always exists in every network.
2. Which type of network is most suitable for small home networks due to its simplicity and low cost?
easy
A. Client-Server network
B. Peer-to-Peer network
C. Wide Area Network
D. Metropolitan Area Network

Solution

  1. Step 1: Identify usage scenario

    The question refers to small home networks.

  2. Step 2: Match with network characteristics

    Peer-to-Peer networks are simple, low-cost, and easy to set up.

  3. Final Answer:

    Peer-to-Peer network → Option B

  4. Quick Check:

    Home file sharing commonly uses Peer-to-Peer networks ✅
Hint: Small and low-cost setup = Peer-to-Peer.
Common Mistakes: Choosing Client-Server even for very small networks.
3. Which network type provides better security and centralised control over data?
easy
A. Peer-to-Peer network
B. Mesh network
C. Client-Server network
D. Bus network

Solution

  1. Step 1: Identify the requirement

    The question focuses on security and central control.

  2. Step 2: Match with network architecture

    Client-Server networks centralise data and access control on servers.

  3. Final Answer:

    Client-Server network → Option C

  4. Quick Check:

    Central authentication improves security in Client-Server systems ✅
Hint: Central control and security = Client-Server.
Common Mistakes: Thinking Peer-to-Peer can offer the same level of security.
4. In which type of network does failure of a central server affect the entire network?
medium
A. Client-Server network
B. Peer-to-Peer network
C. Ring network
D. Mesh network

Solution

  1. Step 1: Identify the single point of failure

    The question mentions a central server.

  2. Step 2: Match with network dependency

    Client-Server networks depend heavily on the central server.

  3. Final Answer:

    Client-Server network → Option A

  4. Quick Check:

    Server failure disrupts services for all clients ✅
Hint: Central server failure = Client-Server impact.
Common Mistakes: Assuming Peer-to-Peer also has a central failure point.
5. Which type of network is commonly used in large organisations like banks and universities?
medium
A. Peer-to-Peer network
B. Ring network
C. Bus network
D. Client-Server network

Solution

  1. Step 1: Identify organisational scale

    The question refers to large organisations.

  2. Step 2: Match with network needs

    Client-Server networks support scalability, control, and security.

  3. Final Answer:

    Client-Server network → Option D

  4. Quick Check:

    Banks rely on central servers for secure data management ✅
Hint: Large organisation networks = Client-Server.
Common Mistakes: Choosing Peer-to-Peer for enterprise environments.
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10 questions~5 mineasy hard