In the Microsoft Windows environment, there are generally two types of computer networks; one is called an Peer-to-peer or Ad-Hock Network, and the other is the Windows Domain Network.
1. Peer-to-peer, or Ad-Hock networks running Windows are based on the Windows Workgroup concept, where a group of computers wired together may share their local files and printers with the other computers on the local network. No one user has any control over the other computers on network. This Peer-to-peer or Ad-Hock network is used by most home office networks with 2 - 12 computers and where there is little concern for information security. This network usually can not communicate with or share resources with computers outside of the local environment.
2. Windows Domain networks are a more advanced network where one or more servers, referred to as Domain Controllers, control all user access to the network and it's resources through user account rights assignment and domain policys. Network Administrators create user accounts and grants rights to network resources. Network resources are stored in a database called Active Directory. The groth of a Windows domain is virutally unlimited in size and complexity. Computers located anywhere in the world can be part of the same domain just as long as they can communitate with one of the Domain's Controllers. Security can extend beyond the network itself to include all of the connected workstations and peripherals.