When it comes to network communication, there are two key roles that computers can play: client and server. A server is a computer host that has software installed that enables it to provide information or services to other hosts on the network. On the other hand, a client is a computer host that has software installed that enables it to request and display the information obtained from the server.

There are several types of servers that can be used on a network, depending on the services required. For example, an email server runs email server software and clients use mail client software to access email on the server. Similarly, a web server runs web server software and clients use browser software to access web pages on the server. A file server, on the other hand, stores corporate and user files in a central location and the client devices access these files with client software such as Windows File Explorer.

In small businesses and homes, many computers function as servers and clients on the network, creating what is called a peer-to-peer (P2P) network. The simplest P2P network consists of two directly connected computers using either a wired or wireless connection. However, multiple PCs can also be connected to create a larger P2P network, but this requires a network device, such as a switch, to interconnect the computers. The main disadvantage of a P2P environment is that the performance of a host can be slowed down if it is acting as both a client and a server at the same time.

A P2P application allows a device to act as both a client and a server within the same communication. In this model, every client is a server and every server is a client. Some P2P applications use a hybrid system where resource sharing is decentralized, but the indexes that point to resource locations are stored in a centralized directory.

It's also worth noting that a single computer can run multiple types of server software and multiple types of client software. This is useful in scenarios where one computer needs to provide several services simultaneously, such as in a home or small business.

Overall, understanding the roles of clients and servers is crucial for anyone involved in network communication. Whether you're setting up a simple P2P network or managing a complex enterprise network, having a solid grasp of these roles will help ensure that your network runs smoothly and efficiently.

I hope you got some light reading this!!

Cheers