Both networking paradigms can coexist and complement each other. For example, if we are connected P2P while we are on the move, we can update an online database as soon as a carrier network becomes available. P2P communication between two devices doesn’t preclude us from also reaching out to web or cloud servers. And finally, information flows directly from one device to the other-we can control the information flow and choose whether data is saved or retained.
It uses less power due to its short range and can help protect privacy because information remains decentralized. P2P still works if wireless infrastructure is unavailable or overwhelmed due to high demand, for instance. We don’t require a carrier network or access to Wi-Fi infrastructure, and we won’t be restricted by data quotas. However, the concept of P2P communication doesn’t stop with telephony or file sharing and has little do with copyright. Popular services such as Skype and BitTorrent are only two examples that use peer-to-peer technology. Now it’s time to end our dependence on wireless infrastructure. We’ve mastered the exchange of data between Android devices using Wi-Fi.
In this chapter, we’ll give peer-to-peer ( P2P) networks the attention they deserve. Peer-to-Peer Networking Using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct