Components of a Network

The following are the components and features that all networks have in common:

• Servers - Computers that provide shared resources to network users.
• Clients - Computers that access shared network resources provided by a server.
• Media - The way in which the computers are connected.
• Resources - Files, printers or other items to be used by network users.

Even with these shared components, networks can be divided into two broad categories:

• Server-Based networks
• Peer-to-Peer networks

Server-Based Networks

Most networks have a dedicated server. A dedicated server is a computer on a network that functions as a server, and is not used as a client or a workstation. A dedicated server is optimized to service requests from network clients.

Servers perform a wide variety of tasks. Usually, large networks have specialized servers for different tasks. Examples of specialized servers are:

• File and print servers - manage user access and use of file and printer resources.
• Application servers - make the data on the server available to clients.
• Mail servers - manage electronic messaging between network users.
• Communication servers - handle data flow and E-mail messages.

Comparison between Peer-to-peer and Server-based Networks

Summarizes the features of peer-to-peer and server-based networks:

Feature	Peer-to-peer Network	Server-based Network
Size	Good for up to 10 users	Limited only by server and network hardware
Security	Users are responsible for their own security	Offers extensive user security
Administration	Is administered by the user of each computer	Is centrally administered