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Which type of network is defined by decentralized resource sharing?

  1. Client-server

  2. Peer-to-peer

  3. Domain

  4. Subnetwork

The correct answer is: Peer-to-peer

The correct answer is Peer-to-peer. This type of network is characterized by decentralized resource sharing, meaning that each computer, or peer, in the network can act both as a client and as a server. In a peer-to-peer network, resources such as files, printers, and internet connections are shared directly between users without a central server managing the interactions. This allows for a more collaborative environment where each participant can contribute resources, making it flexible and efficient for small groups or informal networks. In contrast, the client-server model is centralized, relying on a dedicated server to manage resources and provide services to multiple clients. Domains refer to a specific logical grouping of devices managed under a common database, typically seen in larger networks with more formal management structures. Subnetworks, or subnets, are divisions within a main network that help optimize performance and traffic management but do not inherently define the structure of resource sharing. Thus, the peer-to-peer model stands out for its decentralized approach to sharing resources.