Small PeerPeer PC Network

1
Small Peer-Peer PC Network

• No dedicated (full-time) server
• User PCs supply services to each other
• So user PCs act both as clients and as servers

2
Small Peer-Peer PC Network

• File Sharing
• Each PC can make certain disk drives or
  directories available to to other user PCs
• Can allow others read-only or full access to
  files there
• Can require password for access

3
Small Peer-Peer PC Network

• Printer Sharing
• Each PC can make one or more printers attached to
  it available to others

4
Small Peer-Peer PC Network

• Advantage
• No dedicated server to purchase and maintain

5
Small Peer-Peer PC Network

• Disadvantages
• If someone turns off their PC or crashes it,
  people using its files or printer are cut out

6
Small Peer-Peer PC Network

• Disadvantages
• Users often set up security poorly giving access
  to unauthorized people
• Special problem if home network is connected to
  the Internet

7
Small Peer-Peer PC Network

• Overall
• Beyond about 2-5 users, problems become too
  pronounced
• Beyond about 10 users, very bad idea