Client-Server Networks
• Client-server networks are computer networks that use a dedicated
computer (server) to store data, manage/provide resources and control
user access.
• The server acts as a central point on the network upon which the other
computers connect to.
• A computer that connects to the server is called a client.
• A client-server network is usually preferred over a peer-to-peer network
that doesn’t have a central server to manage the network.
Functions of Client-Server Network
• Data storage
• Handling security
• Hosting shared applications
• Managing an internet connection
• Scheduling and running backups
• Email services
• Print jobs
• Domain name services
• Storing usernames and passwords to control access
• Assigning levels of access to resources
Benefits of a client-server network
1. Generally more secure than peer-to-peer networks
2. One client computer crashing does not effect the other
computers
3. Easier to recover files as backups can be controlled centrally by
the network administrator
4. Files and resources are easier to share and control from server
5. Improved levels of security as files are centralised
6. It’s easier to administrate the whole network using a server
Benefits of a client-server network
7. Faster performance as each computer is only fulfilling
one role
8. Security is potentially cheaper and easier when done
centrally
9. Individual users do not have to worry about backups or
security
10. Larger networks can be created
Drawbacks of a client-server network
• Servers can be expensive to buy and maintain
• A network technician will often be required
• Trickier to set up with specialist knowledge needed
• Over-all set up cost is more expensive than a peer-to-peer
network
• Server failure will probably disrupt all computers on the
network
