Client Server Advantages & Disadvantages

Client-server describes a type of computer application architecture within network computing that designates tasks between clients that instigate requests and servers that process requests. The two-tiered model enables file sharing between the client and server, and some uses include Web browsing, email and chat rooms.

P2P

Client-server architecture is distinguished from peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture, where the tiers can act as clients or servers and have equal responsibilities in sharing or sending files or data.

Centralized Resource

Client-sever is seen as a centralized resource for an entire network, enabling the database to be used to debunk repetitive or erroneous data throughout the network.

Network Alterations

In client-server set-ups, a server can be altered without disturbing the clients, while P2P systems require accessing every peer in the network.

Security

Client-server arrangements aid security efforts because there are fewer servers, limiting the number of people with access to them and increasing security features of the servers.

Congestion

Client-server networks can become congested and overload the server with requests, while P2P request efforts improve with the number of participants. Client-server users can also suffer when a vital server fails, while the evenly distributed duties in the P2P system ensure the network will be operational while not at full capacity.

References

• Client-Server Pros and Cons

Resources

• P2P Advantages and Disadvantages