Essay Sample on Network Architecture

The network architecture is the pattern of a communication system. In particular, it is the design for the specification of a networks physical elements and their functional organization and configuration. Additionally, it refers to the operational principles, processes, and data formats used. In other words, network architecture refers to how computers are organized logically on a network, and the role of each computer. Two types of network architectures would be appropriate to meet the objective of the project, in particular, to avail secure public wireless connection in each location in a consistent, cost-effective, and safe way. They include client/server architecture and peer-to-peer network architecture.

The client/server network architecture is one of the most common patterns mostly in big businesses. Apparently, one or more of the computers operate as the servers that avail services to the rest of the workstations called the clients. The main advantages of this layout are that it facilitates centralized control. The servers aid in administering the whole network of workstations and enable access to rights and resource allocation. Second, all files are only stored on the servers, which facilitates easy management and location. Third, this architecture enables efficient backup and recovery of data since all data is stored on the server. Finally, it ensures security of the data as rules defining safety and access rights are established during set-up of the server. However, this architecture results in congestion in the network due to many requests from clients. Over-load often leads to breaking down of servers. Second, this structure is not robust. Furthermore, if the server fails, the whole network crashes. Finally, it is very expensive to install and manage client/server network architecture. Notably, client/server architecture is used in big scale systems where security is a big issue.

In peer-to-peer network architecture, every workstation or peer has equal status, and there is no server. Normally, this design is common in homes and small businesses. The main advantages of this architecture are that it is easy to install and configure computers on the network. Second, all the peers share the resources and contents. Third, it eliminates central dependency, and therefore, failure of one peer does not affect the functioning of the other clients. Additionally, it is affordable to build and maintain a peer-to-peer network. Nevertheless, the decentralization of the system hinders administration. Second, the security is weak, which translates to easy transmission of viruses and malware. Similarly, data recovery and backup are difficult since each workstation should have its back-up system. Notably, the peer-to-peer architecture supports a small number of peers, and it is not preferred for businesses that transmit sensitive data.

The network architecture that is optimal for use by this coffee retailer organization is the client/server architecture. Notably, the organization has hundreds of shops and serves people and businesses in need of internet connection.

Client/server network architecture facilitates centralized control. The servers aid in administering the whole network of workstations and enable access to rights and resource allocation. Notably, the server will be located at the corporate headquarters in Seattle, Washington. Second, all files are only stored on the servers, which facilitates easy management and location. Third, this architecture enables efficient backup and recovery of data since all data is stored on the server. Similarly, it ensures security of the data as rules defining safety and access rights are established during set-up of the server. Finally, the organization has many connected workstations. Client/server architecture facilitates communication in the vast network where security is a big issue