A peer-to-peer (P2P) server takes server technology and distributes it over a network of hosts. A dedicated server puts resources and a central platform in one place, but each hub or server in a P2P network shares hosting responsibilities equally.
Compared to dedicated servers, P2P servers are a relatively new technology. People use both in various practical applications such as gaming, business, etc. This guide compares the features of peer-to-peer and dedicated servers to help you decide which one best suits your server needs.
What is a dedicated server?
A dedicated server is a hosting environment that dedicates most of its resources to one single application. Only the user paying for/creating the server can access its processing, hard disk space, RAM, etc.
These servers can exist as physical on-premises devices or in the cloud. Examples of on-premises instances include more established companies running legacy hardware, and gamers who run their own dedicated servers from their PCs to host themselves and friends as they play games. . ARK: Survival Evolved, satisfactionagain Mine Craft.
Hosting providers usually offer cloud dedicated servers. They exist in the cloud, but the resources are divided among specific users, creating the same dedicated functions in a cloud-based environment. Users can experience all the benefits of a secure dedicated server his resources while leveraging the agility of a cloud environment.
What is a P2P server?
Comparing p2p and dedicated servers may not seem like much on the surface. Both are servers and provide users with the same types of resources, such as RAM, CPU usage, and storage capacity.
The difference between peer-to-peer and dedicated servers is their framework. P2P servers, for example, rely on distributed architectures to run their platforms. Server resources are distributed across all computers within a particular network.
A computer in a peer-to-peer network is a node. Each node is equally responsible for supporting the P2P server platform and resources. This is useful in cases like P2P and dedicated game servers.
All players in the game party have access to the various resources needed to power the server: bandwidth, hard disk space, RAM, and even power. By sharing hosting responsibilities and having each player participate as a node, no one player or her PC is responsible for the entire gaming experience. As a result, all players can continue playing and worry less about losing connectivity.
Peer-to-peer and dedicated servers
The type of server you choose can affect the functioning of your network infrastructure over time. If you don’t like your choice, it can be difficult to move on to another option.
This table provides a side-by-side comparison of peer-to-peer and dedicated server capabilities. With everything laid out in front of you, you can confidently make the best decision for your unique situation.
P2P | Single-minded |
---|---|
Resources are shared across a distributed framework of PCs or nodes | Resources are backed by a single location (either a physical device or a partition in a cloud environment) |
Suitable for small networks | It is often best suited for large enterprises that require a lot of server power and resources. |
Resources are directly available to all members of the network | A resource is dedicated to a single user, entity, or platform |
Usually chosen to keep costs down | generally more expensive.Reserved for higher IT budgets |
Similarity
When creating game servers, the similarities between dedicated and peer-to-peer are striking. Usually game developers don’t give users dedicated servers. All you need is a controller his server to host and list dedicated servers that a player of your game will eventually pay the bills for.
When it comes to P2P games, people still host server platforms, but with a slightly different framework. For example, all gamers playing on the platform share resources. No need to select from a list of servers. You and your friends simply join a team or lobby and choose a game type. For games like Super Smash Bros.®which means you can choose from modes such as Squad Strike and Tourney.
difference
Honestly, both platforms are more different than the same. Significant differences include organizational size, budgets, and responsibilities that can be accommodated.
Looking at Peer-to-Peer vs. Dedicated Servers, we can see that P2P functionality is somewhat limited. Only small networks or organizations can be supported by the peer-to-peer framework. But for other businesses, with the exception of enterprise-level companies, this is a useful option.
Many companies then choose P2P because it is a more budget-friendly option. P2P also distributes server support and performance among members. Dedicated relies on her one specific her PC/user hosting server resources. By sharing resources via P2P, businesses can avoid connection interruptions and allocate team bandwidth more intelligently.
Which is better for your needs, a dedicated server or a P2P server?
After seeing an in-depth performance and resource comparison of peer-to-peer and dedicated servers, which option is best for your needs? Still not sure, Liquid Web can help.
With decades in the industry, The Most Helpful Humans in Hosting can guide you in making the right decisions. Every day, countless customers choose Liquid Web Dedicated Servers and never look back. We offer managed and dedicated hosting options that take all the maintenance and stress out of your hands.