The concept of a centralized system is one which has a major hub or hubs which peers communicate with. This system allows peers to be freed from certain efforts, giving them to the central body. Maintaining easily accessed and accurately updated lists of information on all clients is one way in which a central body shines.
In the computer world, centralization most frequently refers to File Sharing and Networks.
Centralization has a number of advantages:
- A central body is easily regulated and organized. The services it provides can be kept up to date.
- All participants need only refer to the central body, so there is no confusion as to communication channels.
Centralization has a number of (at least theoretical) disadvantages:
- A central body presents a single obvious target for attack.
- If the central body is crippled, all participants are crippled.
See also: Decentralize | Centralized Clients | OpenNap | File Sharing | Multi-Network | Multi-Network Clients
