# Distributed Networks

### Centralized Networks

A system where a single, centrally owned or controlled server (or node) is entrusted with processing data to and  from peripheral nodes. This can be diagramed similarly to a wheel where a single node acts as an axil that sends messages of the "spokes" to the outside of the wheel.

### Decentralized Networks

> Peer-to-peer networks, where no entity controls an effective or controlling number of the network nodes, running [open source software](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_source_software) also not controlled by any entity, are said to effect a decentralized network protocol. These networks are harder for outside actors to shut down, as they have no central headquarters

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Decentralized networks described in detail
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### Distributed Networks

> A network configuration where every participant can communicate with one another without going through a centralized point. Since there are multiple pathways for communication, the loss of any participant will not prevent communication. This is also known as peer-to-peer network as they're decentralized.

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