
14 Networking Explained, Second Edition
28. In Figure 1.2(a), I see the word “centralized” is used. Sometimes when I hear peo-
ple talk about computer networks, they often use terms like centralized, decentral-
ized, and distributed. What do these terms mean?
The terms centralized, decentralized, and distributed are part of the old MIS (manage-
ment information systems) vocabulary and denote specific data communications models.
These terms are more applicable to the use of computing and not networking resources.
However, they are still used today to describe various communication models and hence war-
rant consideration. To understand the differences ...