Peer to Peer Systems

Peer-to-peer networks connect individual computers directly with one another without requiring a server. All nodes share resources with all the other nodes directly. Peer-to-Peer networks are used for small offices and home networks.

One advantage of peer-to-peer networks is that they don't require specialized networking software.

• Windows 98, Me, 2000, and XP operating systems all include the Client for Microsoft Networking which is usually installed automatically with the operating system.
• Macintosh computers usually come with a built-in Ethernet connection and AppleTalk networking software.

When connecting a peer-to-peer network to the Internet, the computer with the Internet connection actually acts as a server because the resource sharing only goes one way.

Peer-to-Peer networks usually use a bus topology. Network topologies are discussed in the task Network Configurations.

With Apple's wireless Apple Airport hub, you can connect Macintosh computers into a peer-to-peer home network without running cables through your house.