Peer-To-Peer Networking And Operations

Peer-to-Peer Networking and Operations

Peer-to-peer (p2p) networking allows resources to be shared between computers on a network. The low-cost and easy setup makes them ideal for a small network. (Bird and Harwood) In a p2p network all the computers considered equal, they all have the same capabilities to use the network resources.

The largest advantage of peer-to-peer networks is the low initial costs because there is no need to purchase a dedicated server. Another advantage is that Windows XP only requires minor reconfiguring to work within a p2p network.

The largest disadvantages to a p2p network include back-up issues due to the lack of having a centralized repository for file storage. This can be overcome by implementing a back-up policy to where the network users are to store their files to be backed up on one computer within the network. A p2p network does not provide the security that would be available on a client/server network; this is because with a client/server network security can be enforced through the server. With a p2p network each computer must have the security applied on each system.

With only four PCs to share a printer and Internet connection a p2p network will be sufficient with the use of a hub/router and some Cat5 cable. Wal-Mart carries both at competitive prices. Their 25ft Cat5 cable runs around eight dollars a piece and a wired router can be purchased for less than fifty dollars. So for less the $100 all the parts can be purchased locally to easily network 4 computers using p2p.

With a better understanding of p2p networking, the step-by-step tutorial below can aid during the process of setting up a p2p network.

Connecting p2p with Windows XP

Preparing Windows XP for p2p.

With the computer already booted go to "Add or Remove Programs" found within the "Control Panel"; this can be done by clicking "Start", "Control Panel", and selecting "Add or Remove Programs." From there select "Add/Remove Windows Components" located on the left side of the window. That will open up a new window titled "Windows Components Wizard." Scroll through the list of components and click on "Network Services", and then click the "DetailsÐ'..." button. This will bring up new window titled "Network Services". Check the box next to "Peer-to-Peer" and click "OK". This will close the "Network Services" Window. Click "Next" at the bottom of the "Windows Component's Wizard" window and follow any additional instructions from the in the wizard. (Mircosoft)

Setting Computer Name and Workgroup

Each computer must have a unique name within the workgroup. To assign a name and workgroup to a computer click "Start" then right click on "My Computer" and click "Properties". A window titled "System Properties" appear. Click on the tab titled "Computer Name" then click the "Change"; this will cause a new window titled "Computer Name Change" to pop up. Enter in the desired computer name in the "Computer name:" box. Then click inside the "Workgroup" box and type the desired workgroup name. Note that the workgroup name is not required to be the same on each computer; it will make finding the other computers on the network easier. Also any changes done here will require a reboot before the new settings will take effect. (Mircosoft)

Networking Printers Within p2p Network

The simplest way for all computers to use a printer within the network is to directly connect the printer to one computer and then share the printer with the other computers. To share the printer from the computer that it is directly connected to click "Start" then click on "Printers and Faxes". This will bring up the "Printers and Faxes" window. Right click on the printer and select "SharingÐ'..." in the window new window select "Share this printer" then click "OK". The printer will now be shared with the other computers on the network. (Mircosoft)

To connect to the shared printer from another computer click "Start" then "Printers and Faxes". Then on the left