Computer Network Architecture

Computer Network Architecture

Computer Network Architecture is defined as the physical and logical design of the software, hardware, protocols, and media of the transmission of data. In other way we can say the computers are organized and how tasks are allocated to the computer.

A computer network model represents the organization of multiple computers in a network. It describes how individual computers are interconnected in a network.

The computer network architectures are as follows −

Centralized Computing Architecture

In centralized computing architecture, one powerful computer is used as a server for one or more low-powered computers. In the centralized model, the nodes are not connected between the computer but are only connected to the server.

The centralized computing architecture contains −

• All processing functions in the central, mainframe computer.
• All terminals are linked to the central computer and operations work as input/output devices.

Distributed Computing Architecture

Distributed architecture interconnects one or more personal computers (PC) through nodes. It allows various features like file sharing, hardware sharing, or network sharing. In this model, the nodes can handle their data and depend on the network for administration other than data processing.

For example, a network can have a computer that is regarded as a Print server. The print server would handle all the printing jobs of the entire network.

Distributed computing architecture contains the following −

• Computers can be efficient in performing independently
• Tasks will be finished locally on multiple computers.
• Networks allow the computers to transfer data and service
• It does not support processing assistance.

Collaborative Computing Architecture

The collaborative computing architecture is an amalgamation of centralized and distributed computing. In the collaborative model, the individual members of a network can process their own user’s basic needs.

For example, a database server like ORACLE server/MSSQL server handles all the database-related processing of all the nodes of networks.

There are two types of network architectures are used:

• Peer-To-Peer network
• Client/Server network

Peer-to-Peer Network (P2P) :

In the Peer-to-Peer network, “peers” represent computer system. These peers are connected to each other with help of  medium like Internet/modem.

It is the simplest form of networking. Files might be shared directly. There is no need for a central server among these systems on the network. All the Computers are file servers and clients for each other.

This type of network is very essential and important for small companies or organizations, usually up to at least 10-12 computers. There is also no separate division between clients and servers. All computers in this network are treated the same and equally and might send even receive messages directly. This P2P network is useful in various organizations such as business, education, small offices, etc.

Advantages :

1. P2P network is very cheaper and affordable.
2. P2P is very simple and can be easily configured.
3. It is very easy and simple to manage. The modern OS makes it very easy.

Disadvantages :

1. The message is sent freely among each connected computer. So, In this type of network security is one of the major issues.
2. If computer working is down and sharing of resources might become a major problem.
3. With an increase in the number of computers on this network, performance, security, and access can also become major problems

Client/Server Network (CSN) :

Client/Server Network is type of computer network in which one of centralized computers called as server, and other personal computers (PC) called as clients, are connected.  In  Client/Server Network (CSN) clients are connected to server can share or use resources which is stored in server. Servers are heart of  tnetwork system.

This type of network is more stable compared to the P2P network. This architecture supports the separation of functionality commonly based on the concept of service.

Advantages :

1. A special Network Operating System (NOS) is provided by the server to provide resources to users.
2. The data is in a centralized manner on the server. It is very easy to set up and manage data. 
3. The server controls data security issues.
4. Client/Server Network boosts the speed of sharing resources.

Disadvantages :

1. Server down will affect the entire network.
   
2. Client/Server Network is very expensive as compared to P2P. This is due to servers having greater memory and many different networking devices such as hubs, routers, switches, etc.
3. The cost of the network operating system being provided is very high.
4. Maintenance of also very high in comparison to the P2P networks.