Running head: CLIENT SERVER PROS AND CONS 1
Client Server Pros and Cons
Henry Ford
POS355
October 6, 2014
Mr. Kernan
CLIENT SERVER PROS AND CONS 2
Client Server Pros and Cons
Computer Networking has a vast amount of attributes. These attributes allow a system to not only function in a specific way but they also add definition to the system which in turn creates a specific identity. One of the identities of a Network is a Client/Server Network. The term "client server" defines a network system where computers known as servers are used. The Servers create central management. This form of management is used to access the network. Each network has a plethora of segments that are used for resources and data storage. These Network applications are used in Commercial applications more so than anywhere else. Since there are a variety of Network configurations, the end user has to determine which one of the specific Network features they want and also to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each system. Even though the Client/ Network architecture is the most desirable for most commercial businesses, there are certain disadvantages in this system. “The reason that client/server computing is still growing in popularity is because top management believes that it will save them money, and end-users believe that it will solve many of their computing problems.” (Windsor, 2011)
Client/Server Definition:
This type of computing provides the necessary comingling of personal computers into a hosting system. This is seamless integration. This system caters to the customers more than the other types of systems. This type of computing generally refers to a certain model. In this computing model, several computers interact with each other. This model allows customers to access specific information. This provides everything located throughout the customer’s information network. Customers are very interested in computing. This level of interest comes
CLIENT SERVER PROS AND CONS 3 because it allows them to be efficient. This computing model effectively utilizes all computing resources within their network.
Server Advantages
One of the distinct advantages of having one server is the independent database hosting. The single server allows for the hosing of user names and passwords while simultaneously allowing management of levels of access individual users. This also spans across to the computers as well. In this respect, the computers restricted or granted access to specific network resources. In terms of support staff, the amount of people needed is minimal. This plays a major role in the element of security precautions that are constantly being resolved at the Network administrative level.
Disadvantages: Centralized Server
The biggest problem with having a single Server is the risk of failure. Since there is one main server there is always the issue of having one single point of failure. This failure can bring the business to a complete halt. In retrospect, one Sever that contains the business functionality contains all of the account user names, passwords and also the programming that would allow for that business to function. SO when that system fails that entire business fails. No one will be able to log on or off to get anything done. Obviously this would affect not only the individual users but also the other computers that use the server as well.
Advantages: Centralized Server
The big advantage to having a client server is the dynamic scalability of the system. Adding different parts to the system can be done without causing much of a disturbance in service. Adding network segments such as computers and servers to a client server network can be done without jeopardizing the network. The administration of new resources can be done
CLIENT SERVER PROS AND CONS 4 through the main server. When you do not have a central server you have to configure each separately. This means that all of the usernames and passwords will also need to be done one each computer, “one by one.” The larger the network the more work that has to be done and the more people it will take to do it.
Expense
The cost of the client network is also less expensive as well. The cost for employees and maintenance goes down considerably because you do not have the extended elements that a larger network will have. The cost of software goes down because you can file share. However, the cost of hardware and software can be significantly more because of licensing and implementation issues. Another item to consider would be the cost of having a “backup server as well.”
Conclusion
The Client Server network is a tremendous resource for businesses to have. These networks have been a part of the IT Industry for quite some time and will continue to be so. The Network is easy to maintain. However, there are some draw backs to the system. The good attributes greatly outweigh the bad elements though.
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References
Guynes, C. S., & Windsor, J. (2011). Revisiting Client/Server computing. Journal of Business & Economics Research, 9(1), 17-22. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/848788984?accountid=458
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