What is Peer-to-Peer (P2P)

 What is Peer-to-Peer (P2P)

As for Peer-to-Peer or P2P, it is a decentralized network model, where every participant is equally qualified a “peer” and can start and finalize transactions without involving central control or server. This model means that peers can exchange consumable goods with each other such as files, storage space and or processing power; It is often applied in several applications like file sharing, block chain and decentralized finance.
How P2P Works
However in P2P network, all the computers or nodes work as both clients as well as servers. This implies that every peer can request for some resources from other peer and also be in a position to supply the same. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:
Connection: Peers are connected to each other with the help of internet connection; hence it forms a network.
Resource Sharing: Every peer may transfer files, information or even computations. For instance, in file-sharing context, one node can upload while the other nodes can download the same file at the same time.
Decentralization: Unlike traditional OSNs, a distributed network is maintained which strengthens the robustness criteria and at the same time minimizes the chances of a singularity.
Direct Transactions: Interacting parties can transact directly, it may comprise of transmitting files to each other, exchanging virtual currencies and so forth.
Examples of P2P Applications
File Sharing: Some of these new applications include Napster and Bit Torrent that enable users to exchange music, videos and other files without the involvement of a central server.
Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies rely on the P2P technology in order to conduct secure financial transactions. Everyone in the network can verify the transactions made, thus helping to improve the decentralised security of the system.

VoIP Services: Software such as Skype relays through P2P communications to enable voice and video communications where participants are connected to another participant directly.
Content Distribution: This means that P2P networks can be utilized in distribution of large files with a lot of ease. For instance when a user downloads a file, they can also upload portions of it to other users thereby minimizing the load.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi): P2P platforms are currently being developed in the field of finance services, where users are provided an opportunity to lend directly to others or borrow without the involvement of a middleman, which means that more affordable services are being offered to the clients.
Advantages of P2P Networks
Resilience: One of the principal implications of decentralized is that the network is able to remain operational even if some of the members drop out.
Cost-Effective: P2P networks can eliminate the need to maintain centralised servers and infrastructure which leads to lowering of overall cost.
Scalability: A general advantage of this network is that, as many users are connected, it implies that many resources can be shared and thus optimization of the performance and utilization of resources improves.

Therefore, P2P technology implies numerous opportunities for a range of applications that directly support varoius interactions between users, demand decentralization, and promote a highter level of resource optimization