Client Server

Client Server

1. 'A network where several computers are connected to one or more servers'

   • Preferred choice for large networks
   • A powerful computer is usually the central computer where the files and programs are stored. This is known as the SERVER.
   • The computers connected to the server are the CLIENTS.
   • The server is very important to the network; therefore someone is usually in charge of looking after it. They are known as the NETWORK MANAGER.

2. Advantages

   • SECURITY IS BETTER: because data is centralised and a person is responsible for it
   • CENTRALISED DATA: data is held on a file server; all users can access it at the same time
   • BACKUPS TAKEN CENTRALLY: taken by network manager regularly meaning data and programs unlikely to be lost; can be restored if necessary
   • FASTER ACCESS TO PROGRAMS & FILES: servers are used; powerful computers so network runs fast

3. Disadvantages

   • MORE EXPENSIVE: servers are expensive
   • NEED SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE: need to have a person who understands the technicality of the network
   • SOFTWARE IS SOPHISTICATED & EXPENSIVE: network operating systems are expensive
   • RELIANT ON SERVER: if the server breaks, network goes down and no one can log on