puja only

profileTazzie88
servers.docx

Running head: SERVERS 1

Running head: SERVERS 1

Debbie Utter

Colorado Technical University

Unit 3 IP

Introduction to Operating Systems and Client/Servers Environment

IT140-1503B-01

Dr. Stephan Reynolds

September 11, 2015

Peer-to-peer networks and client-server networks are both distinct networking architectures, each model being suitable for different types of organizations. The main difference between these two architectures is that in Client-server networks, there is a dedicated central computer (known as a server) and the other reliable computers (clients) dependent on the server’s resources. On the other hand, in a peer-to-peer network, each computer can act as the server and client to the others. In simpler terms, if each computer in the network can fully carry out its functions independently, then it is in a peer-to-peer network. If one computer is the go-to computer for services such as file storage or the one given the capability to grant or deny access of services to the other computers, then those computers are in a client-server network.

Peer-to-peer and client-server networks can both be differentiated using the various aspects as follows:

(a) Performance

A peer-to-peer network is only suitable for as much as 10 computers, past which performance problems will arise. An organization with more than 10 computers is best suited for a client-server network. This is because of the presence of a server that does most of the management and control duties. Also, an issue with one computer won’t necessarily interfere with the network since it’s not required to share its computing power.

(b) Cost

Client-server networks are basically more expensive than peer-to-peer networks, both in installation and maintenance. The server in client-server networks needs to have great computing power, and therefore you need have dedicated software to manage the network. An example of this software that does this job excellently is the Windows Server. Such programs are complicated to run, and so more costs may arise due to the need to have experts that fix any arising problems.

(c) Security

Client-server networks are more secure than peer-to-peer networks. The server has a function in it that can grant or reject a user’s access request to the network. This feature is important as it helps keep unwanted users, malware or malicious bots out of the network. However, it is important to note that as the more computers join the client-server network, security management becomes increasingly difficult.

(d)Geographical area

A peer-to-peer network is suitable when it is being set up in homes or small organizations. But for bigger organizations, such as hospitals, a client-server is ideal due to the need for technical functions in the organization.

Depending on the above factors, a client-server network would work best in Health Care HQ.

As earlier mentioned, Windows Server is one of the most efficient operating systems that manages client-server networks. It is a platform through which network applications and web services are developed and run on. It is one of the many Microsoft products. The two major operating systems releases are Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2012. Both offer the following services: file sharing, print sharing, user administration, application server, Dynamic host configuration protocol [DHCP], domain name system [DNS], and backing up data.

Windows Server 2012 has notable improvements from the Windows Server 2008 (which was an earlier release) that greatly enhances its functionality.

In terms of file management, the 2012 release has Dropbox’s functionality incorporated into it by means of Work Folders. This is software that gives you a highly functional, secure file replication service. Work Folders can efficiently keep copies of files on the server and other client computers. A client can also easily request and get a file as long a connection with the server is established.

Another feature include in Windows Server 2012 is the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) Server Failover. This feature now allows two DHCP servers to sync information about the same instance. If one server goes down, the other server instantaneously takes over responsibility of managing the clients.

Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) is another improved feature in Windows Server 2012. It is a suite of additions to Domain Name Systems (DNS) which protects the network traffic from outside attacks. It is able to do this by validating a digital signature to each DNS response, after which the resolver can verify the authenticity of DNS data, even from untrusted DNS server.

RECOMMENDATION

In conclusion, Windows Server 2012 offers improved performance to deal with high latency and variable network conditions. It is reliable in that it offers new ways to reduce network downtime and at the same time enhancing the network’s performance. The OS is also easily responsive to any change in other networking devices. It has low latency which means that the end-to-end transaction processing that happens in applications is greatly reduced.