Computer networks can be logically classified as 1) Peer-to-Peer networks and 2) Client-Server networks

Peer-to-Peer networks

A Peer-to-Peer network has no dedicated Servers. Here in Peer-to-Peer network, a number of workstations (or clients) are connected together for the purpose of sharing devices, information or data. All the workstations are considered as equal. Any one computer can act as client or server at any instance. This network is ideal for small networks where there is no need for dedicated servers, like home networks, small business networks, or retail shops. The Microsoft term for Peer-to-Peer network is “Workgroup”.

There is no limitation for the number of computers in a peer-to-peer network. But Peer-to-Peer implementations are meant for small networks. Typically a Workgroup contain less than 10 workstations.

Network

Normal Workstation Operating Systems are Windows 95/98 (obsolete), Windows ME (obsolete), NT Workstation (obsolete), Windows 2000 professional (obsolete), Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1, Ubuntu Desktop, RHEL Desktop etc.

Client-Server Networks

Peer-to-Peer computer networks are good for small business organizations. For example: A small pharmacy outlet, An automobile service center, A small clinic etc. The main disadvantage of Peer-to-Peer networks are listed below.

• Everything is kept distributed in different computers.

• User generated files are stored in individual computers. Data backup is extremely difficult.

• Each computer has its own user database. There is no centralized user & user privilege management. Users need to remember their user ids and passwords in every computers. Managing network users is extremely difficult.

As the organization's network grows, they must gradually upgrade their Peer-to-Peer network to Client-Server based network.

The Client/Server computer network model is made-up of Client compters and Server compters. Now we need to understand the terms Client and Server.

What is a Client?

A computer which is seeking any resource from another computer is a Client Computer. You can think a client as a computer in your network, where a network user is performing some network activity. For Example: Downloading a file from a File Server, Browsing Intranet/Internet etc. The network user normally uses a client computer to perform his day to day work.

What is a Server?

If a computer has a resource which is served to another computer, it is a Server computer. The client establishes a connection to a Server and accesses the services installed on the Server. A Server is not meant for a network user to browse in internet or do spreadsheet work. A Server computer is installed with appropriate Operating System and related Software to serve the network clients with one or more services, continuously without a break.

In a Client-Server network, high-end servers, installed with the Network Operating System (Server Operating System) and the related software,