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NetworksKey Facts

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture

Part of Client-Server vs P2P — GCSE Computer Science

This key facts covers Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture within Client-Server vs P2P for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Client-Server vs P2P in Networks for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 4 of 9 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 4 of 9

Practice

15 questions

Recall

18 flashcards

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

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Client-Server vs P2P. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Client-Server ArchitectureClient-Server vs Peer-to-Peer - Direct ComparisonThe Two Ways to Organize NetworksClient-Server vs Peer-to-Peer

Practice Questions for Client-Server vs P2P

In a client-server network, what is the role of the server?

  • A. To store and provide resources and services to client computers
  • B. To request files and services from other computers on the network
  • C. To connect all devices together using Wi-Fi signals
  • D. To act as an equal peer alongside all other network devices
1 markfoundation

State three advantages of using a client-server network over a peer-to-peer network. [3 marks]

3 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

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