An IT specialist is consulted about setting up a peer-to-peer network. What would the specialist say about security risk in this type of network?
A. There are many separate points of access that pose a security risk.
B. Peer-to-peer networks use a central server to provide security measures.
C. Peer-to-peer networks limit outside network access, so there is no security risk.
D. The peer-to-peer network is the most secure network available.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. There are many separate points of access that pose a security risk.
In a peer-to-peer (P2P) network, each computer or device, known as a peer, directly communicates and shares resources with other peers in the network, without relying on a centralized server. This decentralized setup can offer certain advantages, such as cost-efficiency and simplicity, but it also comes with significant security risks.
One major concern in P2P networks is the increased number of points of access. In a typical network, security can be managed more easily by controlling access through a centralized server. In contrast, in a P2P network, each peer is responsible for its own security. This means that if one peer is compromised, it can affect the entire network. There are many points of entry into the system, making it difficult to secure all of them effectively.
Additionally, the absence of a centralized security management system means that individual peers may have varying levels of security, such as outdated software or weak passwords, making them vulnerable to attacks like malware, viruses, and hacking attempts. Unlike centralized networks, where a security team can enforce standard protocols across all devices, P2P networks are more difficult to monitor and protect consistently.
While P2P networks are useful for specific scenarios, such as file sharing or local resource sharing, they are not typically recommended for environments where high-level security is critical. Proper security protocols, including firewalls, encryption, and strong access controls, must be implemented on each peer to minimize risks, but even then, P2P networks remain more vulnerable than centralized networks.