Network Architecture

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Computer Network Architecture is a physical design or layout which includes hardware, software, their connections, protocols used as well as communication channels within an organization or across the internet.



Types of Network Architectures

1) Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Model: A network in which all computers / peers are connected with each other. Every computer is a node & working as a client & server both. It requests and provides resources to other nodes without the need for a central authority or server.

 

                 

Usage:

* It is used in a file-sharing applications using BitToorent communication protocols or small number of computers are in use ( BitTorrent enables users to distribute data over the internet in a decentralized manner )

* Video streaming

* Online gaming

Advantages:

* P2P networks can reduce load and cost of servers 

* Increases availability and reliability of resources                                                                                      

* Enhances privacy and anonymity of node

* Failure of one computer won’t disrupt the rest of the system

* Do not require network operating system

* Easier to manage not required advanced knowledge

* File retrieval process can begin at any time

* Entire library of files can be available online 

* Not possible to back up files or folders centrally

Disadvantages:

* P2P can be difficult to manage and secure due to varying capabilities, configurations, and trust levels among nodes.       

* Vulnerable to attacks such as malware, copyright infringement, and free riding.

* Inconsistency in terms of efficiency due to varying bandwidth, latency and availability

2) Client-Server Model:

A network in which all computers (clients) are connected to a central hub or server. Client / node request services or resources from the server, which processes these requests and responds, used web browsing (client requests a webpage from a server) or file sharing (clients accessing files stored on a server).

                                      


Examples:

* Web applications where the client (web browser) sends requests to a web server for web pages
*email clients that connect to email servers to send and receive emails
* atabase management systems where clients communicate with database servers to query and update data.
* Placing a food delivery order via an app from any restaurant, the smartphone is the client and the restaurant’s computer is the server, are the two key participants in the process.                                                                                                                                                            

There are several types of client server architecture, including 2-tier architecture, 3-tier architecture, and distributed architecture. Each type has its characteristics and is suited for different application scenarios.

In a 2-tier architecture, the client communicates directly with the server. It is a simple and straightforward architecture where the client requests services, and the server provides them.
The 3-tier architecture is a more advanced version of client server architecture. It consists of a client, an application server, and a database server. The client sends requests to the application server, communicating with the database server to retrieve or update data.
The Distributed architecture involves distributing the workload among multiple servers. It allows for improved performance, fault tolerance, and scalability. In this architecture, different servers handle client requests and share resources.

Usage:

* It includes web browsing & email

* Online banking

Advantages:

* Using standardized protocols and interfaces, simplifies network design & management
* Enforces rules & policies for accessing and delivering resources, improves network security and quality
* Optimizes performance and consistency of load and caching resources
* Centralized management and control
* Ability to share resources                

Disadvantages:

* Increases dependency and cost of servers
* Reduced availability and scalability of resources
* Decreases privacy & node autonomy due to need of communication with central server / Hub
* Increased complexity
* Dependency on network stability

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