What defines a peer-to-peer network?

A peer-to-peer network is defined by its ability for all devices connected in the network to act both as clients and servers. This means that each device can share resources, such as files or printers, with others without needing a central server to manage these interactions. In such networks, each node (device) is equal and can initiate or complete requests for services, facilitating direct communication among peers. This decentralized architecture allows for greater flexibility and resource sharing compared to traditional client-server networks.

The other choices do not align with the characteristics of a peer-to-peer network. A central server, for instance, is a hallmark of client-server networks, while efficient data handling and star topology refer to specific network types and structures that do not exclusively define peer-to-peer networks.