What is client-server computing?

Generally, client-server computing refers to a fundamental change in computer style, the change from system-based systems to user-based systems.

In particular, a client-server system is a system in which the network joins various computational resources so that clients (or front end) can request services from a VPS server (or back end), which offers information or additional computing power.

In other words, in the client-server model, the client places a request and the server returns a response or takes a number of actions. The server can be activated immediately for this request or add the request to a queue. Direct call center training activation for the request may, for example, mean that the server calculates a number and immediately returns it to the client. 

Placing the request in a queue may mean that the request must be put on hold to be served. A good example of this is when we print text to a network printer. The server places the request in a queue along with print requests from other clients. 

Then it processes the request based on the order of priority, which, in this case, is determined by the order in which the server received the requirement.

Client-server computing is very important because it achieves the following:

Efficient use of computing power.

Reduce maintenance costs by creating client-server systems that require less maintenance and cost less to upgrade.

Increase productivity by giving users clear access to the necessary information through stable and easy-to-use interfaces.

Increase flexibility and the ability to create systems that support multiple environments.

Based on these purposes, organizations moving in the direction of client-server technology greatly increase their competitive position.

The basic client-server model

The client side first sends a message to call the server on standby. Once the client and the server have communication with each other, the client can submit their application.

Client

The client is the applicant for the services. The client can only be a computer. The services requested by the client may exist on the same workstations or on remote workstations that connect to each other over a network. The client always starts communicating.

The components of the client are very simple. A client machine must be able to do the following:

• Run the software of graphical user interfaces (GUIs).
• Create requests for information and send them to the server.
• Save the returned information.

These requests determine how much memory is needed, what processing speed could improve response time, and how much storage capacity is required.

Server

The server responds to requests made by clients. A client can act as a server if it receives and processes requests just as it sends them (for example, a workstation that is also used as a print server by others). Servers do not start communications -they wait for clients’ requests.

Returning to the example of a network’s print server, the client asks the server to print a text to a specific printer, and the server adds the printout to a queue and informs the client when the text is printed successfully.

 The client process can of course belong to the same workstation as the server process. In the example here, a print command can be issued to the network workstation server by using the print server process on that workstation.

The components of the server are very simple. A server machine must be able to do the following:

• Store, retrieve, and protect information.
• Inspect clients’ applications.
• Create information management applications, such as backup, security, etc.
• Manage information.