Working process of a client/server network

Working process of a client/server network

A Client/Server network is a server-based network where there is a single machine that works as a server. The server does not do the computing for the clients but act as remote storage and do some computation for the clients only. For example, process and transfer data from a database.

Client, as known as “The user” is a machine in the network that requests resources from the server. A client can be a Windows or a Mac machine that requests services from the server such as disk space, connections or database as if the services run on the client machine itself.

Server, as known as “The provider” is a machine in the network that provides services to the clients, there are 3 roles in general

1. File transfer and storage
2. Printer server, allowing clients to connect and control printers in the network
3. Communication server, allowing clients to connect to other devices in the network

Benefits of a Client/Server network

1. Using shared resources and devices such as printers, hard disks and applications
2. Reduces loads from high-cost equipment to cheaper client/server model
3. Easy to maintain and monitor. Able to make data up to date.
4. Reduce maintenance costs for both software and hardware.
5. Increase workstation productivity.