Client-server architecture

Definition

Client-server architecture is a computing model that separates tasks or workloads between service providers, called servers, and service requesters, called clients. This structure allows multiple clients to connect to a central server that manages resources and services, facilitating communication and data exchange across networks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Client-server architecture allows for better resource management since servers can be optimized for specific tasks while clients can be lightweight and focused on user interaction.
2. This architecture supports scalability, as additional clients can easily connect to existing servers without significant changes to the infrastructure.
3. Security is enhanced in client-server models because sensitive data can be centralized on servers, which can have stronger protection measures compared to individual client machines.
4. Communication in client-server architecture typically relies on network protocols like HTTP, FTP, or TCP/IP to facilitate data transfer between clients and servers.
5. Common examples of client-server applications include web browsers (clients) connecting to web servers to retrieve content and email clients accessing mail servers to send and receive messages.

Review Questions

• How does client-server architecture improve resource management in computing environments?
  • Client-server architecture improves resource management by centralizing the services and resources on servers while allowing clients to focus on user interface and experience. This separation means that servers can be designed and optimized for specific tasks, leading to more efficient use of processing power, storage, and network bandwidth. Clients can then access these resources without needing to manage them directly, making the system more streamlined.
• Discuss the role of network protocols in the functionality of client-server architecture.
  • Network protocols play a crucial role in client-server architecture by defining the rules for communication between clients and servers. These protocols ensure that data is properly formatted, transmitted, and received over the network. For instance, protocols like HTTP allow web browsers (clients) to request resources from web servers reliably. Without these protocols, the seamless interaction between clients and servers would not be possible.
• Evaluate the impact of client-server architecture on security measures within networked systems.
  • Client-server architecture significantly impacts security measures by enabling centralized control over sensitive data stored on servers. This centralization allows for the implementation of stronger security protocols such as encryption and authentication at the server level, protecting information from unauthorized access. Additionally, since clients do not store sensitive data locally, there is reduced risk of data breaches from individual devices. Overall, this architecture allows organizations to enforce consistent security policies across all connected clients.

Related terms

Server: A server is a powerful computer or program that provides services, resources, or data to other computers, known as clients, over a network.

Client: A client is a computer or software application that requests services or resources from a server in a client-server architecture.

Network Protocol: A set of rules and conventions for communication between network devices, enabling data exchange between clients and servers.