What Is the Client Server Model?
A client server model is a network system wherein servers centrally manage clients or workstations. Workstations are the regular user computers like desktops and laptops, while servers are more powerful computers that perform specific functions for mails, databases and security policies within the network.
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Advantages
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A client server model provides central management for the network. With servers running the network, it is easier to protect and secure the network from viruses and hackers than if computers are left to run at user's discretion. It also makes it easier to adapt to changes and disruptions because servers back up each other and provide smooth transitions for new technologies or network expansion.
Disadvantages
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A client server model is expensive to set up and maintain. Servers have higher requirements for disk space, memory and processors because they have heavier workloads than workstations. Server applications are also expensive because they are meant and designed to manage a network. In a client server setup, the network is heavily dependent on the servers. If the servers are targeted for attack and brought down, the entire network suffers as well.
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Expert Insight
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When gauging which network system to adapt, it is best to weigh the pros and cons as well as the cost of setting up. For small networks that only need to be connected to each other and the Internet, a peer-to-peer network is more advantageous. For bigger networks, including those that have their own mail system and databases and where information is sensitive and integral, having a client server model offsets the relative expense of the initial setup for network security.
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