Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture

What is Peer-to-Peer?

A network model where all computers are equal (peers). Each computer can BOTH request AND provide resources. No central server - computers share directly with each other.

Key Characteristics:

• All equal: Every computer is a peer (no server/client distinction)
• Direct sharing: Computers share resources directly with each other
• Decentralized: No central control point
• Dual role: Each computer is BOTH client (requests) AND server (provides)
• Independent: Each computer manages its own resources

P2P Examples:

• Home network: Two laptops sharing files directly (no server)
• BitTorrent: File sharing - download pieces from many peers simultaneously
• Skype (original): Direct voice/video calls between users
• Bitcoin: Cryptocurrency with no central authority
• LAN gaming: Multiplayer game hosted on player's computer

P2P Advantages:

• No single point of failure: Network continues if one peer fails
• Cheap: No expensive server needed - use existing computers
• Easy setup: Just connect computers, no server configuration
• Scalable: More peers = more resources (each adds capacity)
• No server maintenance: No dedicated hardware to maintain

P2P Disadvantages:

• No central security: Each computer manages own security (inconsistent)
• No central backups: Users must backup their own files
• Hard to manage: Each computer configured separately
• Access issues: Files on User A's computer only available when User A is online
• Performance varies: Depends on individual computer specs
• No central control: Can't enforce policies across network