What characterizes a Client/Server network system?

A Client/Server network system is characterized by having a central server that stores data and resources, which can be accessed by multiple clients. This architecture allows clients—typically individual computers or devices—to communicate with the server to request resources, access files, or utilize services. The server serves the role of managing, storing, and serving the data, ensuring that clients can retrieve or manipulate information effectively.

This structure is efficient in managing resources, as the server can handle multiple client requests simultaneously, and clients do not need to store all shared data locally. The centralization of resources also enhances security, as data management and protection can be focused on the server rather than distributed across all connected computers.

In contrast, other options describe different networking methods that do not fit the Client/Server model. For example, a serverless communication method lacks a dedicated server to facilitate communication and resource sharing. Peer-to-peer file sharing refers to a system where every participant can act as both a client and a server, directly sharing files among themselves without a centralized server. Finally, a direct connection of all computers implies a network topology that doesn't have a defined server-client relationship, which differs from the structured access model inherent in a Client/Server system.