A peer-to-peer network is a self-sufficient computer that acts as both a server and a client to other similar computers on the network. In peer-to-peer network resources sharing, process, and communications control are completely decentralized. P2P networks can be set up within the home, a business, or over the Internet. Each network type requires all computers in the network to use the same or a compatible program to connect to each other and access files and other resources found on the other computer. P2P networks can be used for sharing content such as audio, video, data, or anything in digital format.
All clients on the network are equal in terms of providing and using resources, and users are authenticated by each individual workstation. P2P networks are easy and inexpensive to implement. They are only practical in very small organizations, due to the lack of central data storage and administration. A P2P network is often refer to as workgroup.
