Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science

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Enhance your readiness for the AP Computer Science exam with insightful quizzes. Deepen your understanding and master key concepts as you prepare for a successful test experience!

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What type of network connection does a peer-to-peer network facilitate?

Centralized control of connections
Direct user-to-user connections
Exclusive server-side connections
One-way communication only

The correct answer is: Direct user-to-user connections

In a peer-to-peer network, the key characteristic is that it allows for direct user-to-user connections. This means that each participant, or "peer," in the network communicates directly with another peer without the need for a centralized server to manage the connections. This model contrasts sharply with hierarchical network structures where data and requests pass through central nodes or servers. Each user can share resources such as files, printers, or internet connections directly with others, facilitating a decentralized and often more efficient sharing method. Peer-to-peer networks are typically used in applications such as file sharing and distributed computing, where users benefit from connecting directly to each other. By eliminating the need for a central authority, peers can transact and communicate freely, enhancing privacy and reducing potential bottlenecks that might arise in centrally controlled networks.