Peer-to-peer (P2P) servers take server technology and distribute it across a network of hosts. A dedicated server brings resources and a central platform together 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 for various practical uses such as gaming and business. This guide compares the features of peer-to-peer and dedicated servers to help you decide which one is best for 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 who paid for/created the server has access to 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 established companies running legacy hardware or your own dedicated servers from your PC to host yourself and friends when playing games like ARK: Survival Evolved, Satisfactory, and Minecraft. These include gamers running .
Hosting providers typically offer cloud-dedicated servers. Although they exist on the cloud, the resources are divided among specific users, creating the same dedicated functionality in a cloud-based environment. Users can experience all the benefits of a secure, dedicated server’s resources while leveraging the agility of a cloud environment.
What is a P2P server?
When comparing p2p servers and dedicated servers, on the surface there may not seem to be much of a difference. Since both are servers, they provide the same types of resources to users, such as RAM, CPU usage, and storage space.
The difference between peer-to-peer servers and dedicated servers lies in their framework. For example, P2P servers rely on a distributed architecture to run their platform. Server resources are distributed across all computers within a particular network.
Computers in a peer-to-peer network are nodes. Each node is equally responsible for supporting the P2P server platform and resources. This is useful in cases such as P2P vs. gaming dedicated servers.
All players in a game party may have access to various resources (i.e., bandwidth, hard disk space, RAM, and even electricity) needed to power the server. With each player participating as a node and sharing hosting responsibilities, no one player or her PC is responsible for the entire game experience. As a result, all players can continue playing and are less likely to be disconnected.
Peer-to-peer vs. dedicated server
The type of server you choose can affect the functionality of your network infrastructure in the long run. If you make a choice and don’t like it, it can be daunting to move on to another option.
This table compares the features of peer-to-peer servers and dedicated servers side by side. Everything is laid out in front of you so you can confidently make the best decision for your unique situation.
| P2P | Dedicated |
|---|---|
| Resources are shared across a distributed framework of PCs or nodes | Resources are supported by a single location: a physical device or a partition in a cloud environment. |
| Compatible with small networks | It’s often best suited for large businesses 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 a game server, the similarities between dedicated servers and peer-to-peer servers become apparent. Game developers typically do not provide dedicated servers to their users. All you need is a controller to host and list a dedicated server where players of the game ultimately pay the bills.
When it comes to P2P games, people still host server platforms, but the frameworks are a little different. For example, all gamers who play on the platform share resources. You don’t have to choose from a list of servers. You and your friends just need to join a team or lobby and choose a game type. For games like Super Smash Bros.®which means choosing between modes like Squad Strike and Tourney.
difference
To be honest, both platforms are more different than they are the same. The major differences include the size of the organization that can accommodate them, their budget, and their responsibilities.
When comparing peer-to-peer and dedicated servers, we find that P2P’s functionality is somewhat limited. Peer-to-peer frameworks can only support small networks or organizations. However, for other businesses apart from enterprise-level companies, this is a useful option.
Many businesses then choose P2P as a budget-friendly option. P2P also distributes server support and performance among members. A dedicated server relies on her one particular PC/user to host resources. Sharing resources via P2P allows businesses to avoid connection interruptions and allocate their team’s bandwidth more intelligently.
Which is better for your needs: a dedicated server or a P2P server?
After a detailed comparison of peer-to-peer and dedicated server performance and resources, which option best suits your needs? If you’re still not sure, Liquid Web can help.
The most helpful people in the hosting industry, with decades in the industry, will guide you towards the right decision. Every day, countless customers choose Liquid Web Dedicated Servers and never look back. We offer managed, dedicated hosting options that take all the maintenance and stress off your hands.
