What Are Client Server Networks?
A client-server network consists of a set of servers that manages network operations and facilitates requests made from client computers. Client computers request services from the servers such as sending emails, Web browsing, printing and accessing files and folders in the network. Servers oversee the entire network and make sure that it is secure from any outside threats. Client computers are dependent on the servers to perform their function. Without the servers, client computers are rendered useless.
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Client-Server vs. Peer-to-Peer
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The other type of network system is the peer-to-peer network. In this type, all computers are considered equal. Computers act like stand-alone clients able to perform independently, although they can still communicate with other computers. Data is stored locally and not sent to the servers. Peer-to-peer networks are harder to manage than client-server networks. When one computer goes down and data is lost, it can no longer be retrieved because there was no server to act as a backup. A major disadvantage of the peer-to-peer network is that it puts the responsibility heavily on the users, which makes it hard to implement system-wide security policies and strategies.
Components
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A client-server consists of the servers, the client computers and the network devices that connect them. Network devices include routers, switches and cables that route information to and from the network. The server is responsible for centrally managing the network. In a typical setup, there are several servers performing different functions. One server can be an email server, another can be a Web server, while another can be a security server. This dedicated setup is important because, depending on the size of the network, client computers send requests to the servers all at the same time.
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Advantages
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The main reason why most companies adapt the client-server network model is that it is centrally managed. It is easier to monitor all network activities through the servers than having to go through each computer to manually manage them. Another advantage is that it can adapt easily to change or expansion. When computers are added or technology changes, like the release of a new version of a software, it is easier to implement the changes system-wide with minimal disruption and without user intervention.
Disadvantages
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The main disadvantage of the client-server network is its heavy reliance on servers. When servers go down, the entire network goes down. It is also more expensive and complex to set up. The cost of server hardware and software are high because they perform many functions. A client-server network is not as simple as connecting all computers with a network cable. It involves detailed planning on which servers will be used for emails, for printing, for data and for Web browsing. Once a client-server network goes operational, it takes highly skilled people to maintain the network running on a day-to-day basis.
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