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networking > network types > peer to peer

Peer-to-Peer

A 'peer' is a person who is on the same level of authority and power as you. In a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) network, there is no computer with more control or authority than any other, no file server, little protection of one workstation against another, no hierarchy of "super users" and "standard users". Any computer can begin a network transaction with any other computer on the network.

Peer-to-Peer networks usually are used in the home or very small organisations with trusted users who want to share files, an Internet connection, or a printer. Without a server, costs are low and installation is simple, but users are vulnerable to each other.

Most home operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS and Linux have inbuilt peer-to-peer networking features to allow home networking. With this, several computers in a home can share a printer, exchange documents, share an Internet connection and play online games against each other.

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