General Practice, Solo & Small Firm Division
Technology & Practice Guide
Peer-to-Peer versus Client/ Server Networks
Advantages
Peer-to-Peer Networks
No dedicated server.
Less expensive.
Easy to install and maintain.
Good file, printer, and CD-ROM sharing.
Client/Server Networks
Fast.
Expandable.
Will work with any application.
Handles shared database applications.
More reliable (dedicated server).
Highest level of security.
Disadvantages
Peer-to-Peer Networks
Slow.
No good for database applications.
Less reliable (server is workstation).
Limited expandability.
Client/Server
Needs dedicated server.
More expensive to buy.
More expensive to maintain.