A network in which there are no dedicated servers or hierarchy among the computers. All computers are equal and, therefore, known as peers. Generally, each computer functions as both client and server.

A network of PCs that do not request programs and services from a server. Each peer workstation can allow other workstations access to its resources. Usually Windows 95, or Windows for Workgroups.

One of the two basic types of networks. In a peer-to-peer network, there is no dedicated server or hierarchy among the computers. All the computers are equal and therefore are known as peers. Normally, each computer functions as both a client and a server, and there is no one assigned to be an administrator responsible for the entire network. The user at each computer determines what data on their computer gets shared on the network. See also " Server-based Network".

A LAN that allows all workstations or PCs the same level of access to network capabilities.

Peer-to-peer networking shares resources among computers. You don't need a dedicated server to set up this network. All you need is one network card per computer and cabling.

A network where there is no dedicated server. Every computer can share files and peripherals with all other computers on the network, given that all are granted access privileges. File sharing programs like Kazaa are a good example of this on a larger scale.

A computer network where each computer is a node on the network and there is little reliance on computer servers. Peer-to-peer services include file-sharing networks such as Gnutella and Freenet, and previously Napster was a popular peer-to-peer network.( Wikipedia entry)

is a network where a small number of computers share hardware (like a printer) and information.

A communications environment that allows all desktop and laptop computers in the network to act as servers and share their files with all other users on the network. Peer-to-peer networks are farly common in small offices that do not use a dedicated file server. In such cases, only specific folders are generally made shareable in each machine, not the entire hard disk. However, shared folders are more susceptible to viruses that, once unleashed, can probe the shares on the network.

This is a network that does not rely on a central server to store information. The information is distributed between a number of computers.

A network where there are communications between a group of equal devices. A peer-to-peer LAN does not depend upon a dedicated server.

a cost-effective, low maintenance way to share files, printers, and Internet connections among multiple computers

a grouping of personal computers that all share information between each other

a low-cost entry into simple networking and lets employees share files and peripherals, such as printers and CD-ROM drives, as well as send e-mail within the company

a network in which more than one computer can act as a server

a network (LAN) which has no server

a network where all computer share resources, such as files and

a network without a designated server

a system where all computers can access resources on all other computers when given permission to do so

a virtual network in which a set of devices executes a common protocol or application as equals

type of network in which computers share resources - printers, scanners, file services, etc. Almost every computer has its own resources to share. Mentioned in: Types of Networks. See also: client/server network. Pictures: Peer-to-Peer network diagram

A network without a server or any central control or administration in hardware or software. In wireless networking, these are often called Ad-Hoc networks. Peer-to-peer networks are easy to set up, but lack features and performance compared to client/server networks. Back

A network of computers that are all equals, or peers. Each computer has the same amount of authority, and each can act as a server to the other computers.

A network structure in which each workstation has equivalent capabilities.  Peer-to-peer networks are an alternative to client/server networks.  In general, they are simpler to set up and maintain but do not offer the same level of security or functionality.  See also Local Area Networks.

All nodes on the network have equal access to and control of the network medium.

A wireless or wired computer network that has no server or central hub or router. All the networked PCs are equally able to act as a network server or client, and each client computer can talk to all the other wireless computers without having to go through an access point or hub. However, since there is no central base station to monitor traffic or provide Internet access, the various signals can collide with each other, reducing overall performance. (See Ad hoc mode, Device-to-device network). close

Each radio in a peer-to-peer network has the ability to receive data from, and transmit to, any other radio in the network.

Also known as Ad-hoc mode, a network of computers that has no server or central hub. Each computer acts both as a client and network server. It can be either wireless or wired.

A simple network design that uses no file or printer servers. All workstations on the network are connected by cabling, enabling users to share files and hardware, such as printers.

A network of two or more computers that communicate without using a central server. This lack of reliance on a server differentiates a peer-to-peer network from a client/server network.

A communications network that allows all computers in the network to act as servers and share their files with all other users on the network. Napster is one example of peer-to-peer networking on the Internet. Also known as P2P.

A network in which resources and files are shared without a centralized management source.

A communication network that enables users to connect their computers and share files directly with other users without having to go through a centralized server. Groove is an example of an application that runs on a peer-to-peer network.

A LAN environment with no dedicated server. The peer to peer environment of Microsoft include windows 95/98/NT/2000.

Simple networking method where client devices are interconnected to each other without a central server, or servers.

Network variants in which no rigid division into server and workstations is made, in contrast to a server network. Each PC in the network can provide or use services and data, and each computer has equal rights.

A network design in which each computer shares and uses devices on an equal basis.

a configuration where people store their files on their own computers, and anyone on the network can access the files stored on the other networked computers. Peripheral - a device that is attached to a computer, such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, modem, CD-ROM, DVD, printer, scanner, and speakers.

(P2P): A configuration in which each computer on the network has the same capabilities as the other computers on the network and any one of them can initiate a communications session with another. Any peer can add files, copy them, and move them to any peer computer on the network (where people store their files on their own computers). Therefore, any person on the network can access those files, copy them, and move the copies over the network to another computer.

A peer-to-peer network is one in which workstations (such as PCs) can share information and each other's resources without relying on a centralized server. For example, in a network of four PCs and one hub, it is possible to allow files on all four PCs to be accessed from any other PC. Also see Client/Server Network Hub Network PC Server

A computer network where all the computers have equal status and all resources can be shared between all parties. See also Network and Resources.

A network where computers are connected to each other and each computer is responsible for its own security.

A network that enables its users to communicate with one another directly without first receiving permission from the central server or router. Abbreviated P2P.

A type of LAN whose workstations are capable of being both clients and servers.

Network of minimal security where all computers can act as a server to the other computers on the network. ie Napster