What is a peer-to-peer network?

A peer-to-peer (P2P) network is characterized by the direct connection of computers (or nodes) that communicate and share resources without the need for a central server. In this setup, each participating computer, or peer, can act as both a client and a server, allowing for the sharing of files, resources, and even processing power among users. This decentralized approach enables easier collaboration and resource sharing among users, as they can connect directly to each other.

In contrast, a network that shares resources through a server relies on a dedicated server that controls access to resources, which is not the case in a peer-to-peer network. The distinction lies in the absence of centralized management in peer-to-peer configurations. While P2P networks can be a type of local area network (LAN), they can also exist outside that scope, and thus labeling them strictly as a LAN may not apply universally. Furthermore, referring to configurations used for large geographical areas does not accurately describe a peer-to-peer network, as such networks are more commonly associated with smaller, localized setups.