Introduction
A Windows domain is essentially a managed group of networks (of computers) used in a commercial context. The other devices are managed by at least one of the servers, known as a controller. This allows network administrators to govern the machines via users, settings, and other means. This type of connection pertains to server-based networks that allow for centralized control of network resources, typically by letting users join the network with a single login and password maintained by one or more servers running multiple operating systems (Tomsho, 2016). Server operating systems are intended to efficiently manage various concurrent user logon scripts and demands for shared resources. Servers are typically devoted to operating network services and should not be used to execute user apps (Tomsho, 2016). Hence, if one needs to set aside CPU resources, memory, and network management on servers for the user allowing access to services, a Windows domain is created.
A Windows Domain
To answer the question of the essay, it is valuable to present the alternatives of a Windows domain that is suggested instead of the centralized network. As such, a peer-to-peer network is another option for an office, which roughly provides the same services as a domain. The resources access (needed for sharing and printing) is distributed among multiple client machines, being somewhat complicated. Generally, if a device is not part of a domain, it is in a workgroup. Since they lack a centralized authority, they are far more permissive than domains; each computer has its requirements and system of use. In contrast, network access and policy enforcement specified by a system administrator and executed by domain controllers apply to users and devices in a domain (Tomsho, 2016). A directory service is a software that manages centralized access and security, which is unsatisfactory for some office workers.
The use of peer-to-peer networks might seem more lucrative since it allows more privacy, yet this option is usually not the best for the companies that share and print valuable data. For example, in peer-to-peer networks, users have authority over their own resource sharing and may require several sets of permissions to access them; however, this is inconvenient when high security is required (Tomsho, 2016). Hence, a Windows domain, where security is centrally handled, and users have a uniform form of identification for all shared resources, is a safer option. One of the most critical concerns of file-sharing tools is that confidential material can be revealed, either purposefully or inadvertently, if staff are not cautious and appropriate procedures are not in force (Thorncharoensri et al., 2022). When an unauthorized party acquires a login to a file-sharing platform, it might be challenging to determine what they viewed and how far the personal information has traveled.
Finally, there are some more advantages of the server-based network system for the case when sharing and printing are needed. Namely, server operating systems are optimized for resource sharing, and servers are often dedicated to providing network services, which is better for exchanging files. Next, it might seem that there is no need for specific equipment or a server desktop in a peer-to-peer system, hence lowering start-up expenses; nevertheless, lost productivity due to rising complexity might boost costs in the long term. Thus, higher initial expenses due to specialized hardware and server operating systems and extra recurring expenditures for administrative support are more advantageous in terms of quality.
Conclusion
To conclude, a Windows domain might be more challenging to administrate, but it certainly works better for sharing and printing services in office settings. As such, it is a safer option than a peer-to-peer network; hence, it prevents the issue of leaking of the data from the companies. Moreover, a domain network is better suited for the transfer of certain materials. Finally, it is less costly in the long-term perspective since it is a quality network.
References
Thorncharoensri, P., Susilo, W., & Chow, Y. W. (2022). Privacy-preserving file sharing on cloud storage with certificateless signcryption. Theoretical Computer Science. Web.
Tomsho, G. (2016). Guide to networking essentials (7th ed.). Cengage Learning.