Every business has their own way of operating. But as a general rule, small businesses that are not using server based networks are putting themselves at an unnecessary disadvantage.
Connecting computers in a peer to peer manner is fine when we are talking about two or three computers. If you have a startup or a solo operation, with one or two extra people helping you, a server based network is not necessary.
But if you have 5 or more employees who are working together, it does not make sense to continue with P2P communications. A server based network is the way to go. And here are a few reasons why it is the best option:
- Servers Bring Added Reliability
The very foundation of a successful business is reliability. In the past, it meant a different type of reliability. Now we are more reliant on technology than ever before. A reliable network is vital to your operations.
Say you are operating P2P. It means that every PC on the network is crucial to the entire network staying active. If one computer goes down, your whole network is compromised. That means downtime, which costs you money.
Servers work differently. The hardware is created in a way to protect against redundancies. Even if one device fails, the entire system will continue running. And the device can be repaired while the system is still active.
- Servers Bring Better Security
When a P2P network is in operation, maintaining security tiers is very difficult. In most cases, you will have two tiers. You have the administrator who has complete access and you have the users who have limited access.
With a server, you can set up many different categories of users. In fact, every single account can have its own set of permissions. It ensures that you will have no unnecessary access to vital company data.
- Servers Bring Better Remote Accessibility
Even the most basic and inexpensive servers allow for remote access. A Windows 2008 server allowed for two remote users to access the network. Modern servers allow for much more flexibility when it comes to remote access. With a P2P network, such remote access is not possible.
Having employees work remotely is a major part of how modern businesses are run. It is even more crucial for a startup, as you may have employees who are working other jobs at the same time. Now they can do work for your company while they are at another location.
- Servers Bring Proper Virus Management
It is so easy to manage antivirus and anti-malware software on servers. The main PC that is controlling the server can take care of the installation of these antivirus and anti-malware programs. They can also be updated through the main computer.
If you were running a P2P network, you would have to manually take care of the antivirus programs on each device.
Yes, a P2P network is still relevant. It is useful when you have a solo operation or a business with only two or three employees. But the moment you have five or more employees, it makes sense to go with a server based network.
