5. Peer-Peer network

The alternative to a client-server network is a 'peer-peer' network as shown below

In this configuration there is no central server. Instead, each workstation is loaded with the appropriate applications needed for that machine and local resources such as an attached printer folder or external hard drive can be shared.

The peer-peer network form is most commonly found in the home or a small office.

In the set-up above the Modem / Router is providing access to the internet, it is providing wireless access to the network and it may be set up to issue an IP address for each machine , this is called a DHCP host or 'Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. If a new computer is plugged into the network, it requests an IP address from the router.