Peer-to-peer (P2P) computing or networking is a distributed application architecture that partitions tasks or workloads between peers. Peers are equally privileged, equipotent participants in the network, forming a peer-to-peer network of nodes.

Peer-to-peer, or P2P in its abbreviated form, refers to computer networks using a distributed architecture. In P2P networks, all the computers and devices that are part of them are referred to as peers, and they share and exchange workloads. Each peer in a peer-to-peer network is equal to the other peers.

P2P (peer-to-peer), type of computer network often used for the distribution of digital media files. Each computer acts as both a server and a client—supplying and receiving files—with bandwidth and processing distributed among all members of the network.

A peer-to-peer (P2P) service is a decentralized platform whereby two individuals interact directly with each other, without intermediation by a third party. Instead, the buyer and the seller transact directly with each other via the P2P service. The P2P platform may provide services such as search, screening, rating, payment processing, or escrow.

P2P stands for peer to peer, or person to person. In broad terms it describes a decentralized process where individuals can interact with each other without a third party acting as an intermediary. In the world of payments, P2P is usually talking about sending money easily and directly to family and friends.