Client Server & Peer to Peer Networks (OCR GCSE Computer Science)
Revision Note
Written by: James Woodhouse
Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham
Client Server Model
What is a network model?
A network model is the logical structure of the network
It defines how the network will operate on top of the physical network structure (Star or Mesh)
What is a Client-Server model?
A client is a computer on the network, these connect to the server via a switch
A server is a computer on a network which often has a single purpose, for example
Managing access to the Internet
Managing printing
Providing email services
Providing backups
Controlling security
Servers are often more powerful than the client machines
Servers are seen as more significant than the client machines and can require specialist hardware and software
A network which uses a server is called a client-server model
Most companies, organisations and schools will use a client-server network model
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
Managing backups of the network is easier as it is done from one central point | Servers can be expensive to purchase, setup and maintain |
Updating and installing new software can be done centrally instead of having to log on to each machine | A specialist network manager would be required as servers require specialist IT knowledge |
Security of files can be managed easily | Servers can be a single point of failure, meaning all users would lose access to the network if the server fails |
Examiner Tips and Tricks
It makes it easier in exams to relate to things you know. If you are asked about a client-server network, just think about how your school computers work and the advantages and disadvantages that come with that.
Peer to Peer Model
What is a Peer-to-Peer model?
A peer is a computer on a network which is equal to all other computers
Each peer on the network
Often have their own printer attached
Will provide access to their own files
Is responsible for their own backups
Is responsible for their own security
Is responsible for carrying out their own backups
A network with no server providing services is a peer-to-peer network
Most homes will have a peer-to-peer network model
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
Very easy to set up and maintain | Users will need to manage their own backups |
Very cheap to set up because there is no expensive hardware to purchase | Users will need to manage their own software updates |
No specialist knowledge or staff are required to run the network | The network can be less secure |
Examiner Tips and Tricks
If you are asked about a peer-to-peer network, just think about how your home network is set up and how each computer is responsible for itself, there is no one computer in charge of all of the others.
Worked Example
Lucy has a network in her house. The main devices are shown in the diagram.
1) State whether Lucy’s network is a LAN or a WAN. Justify your choice. [3]
How to answer this:
To answer this, you must give a choice which will be worth 1 mark, then give your justification which will be worth an additional 2 marks.
2) Explain why Lucy’s network uses a peer-to-peer model and not a client-server model.
Answer
1) LAN [1]
1 mark per bullet for justification [2]
Small geographic area
They will own the hardware // dedicated hardware // do not need to use outside hardware
2) 1 mark per bullet to a maximum of 3
No server (required for client-server)
Computers are directly connected
Computers are independent/equal
Computers will have software installed/updated individually
no central installation/updates
Computers will need own security // no central security
Computers will have their own files // no central file storage
Less initial cost/maintenance
Easier to add new devices
Lesser need for file sharing
If any device fails/is removed the remainder can continue
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