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Understanding Client-Server Architecture
Introduction to Client-Server Architecture
Client-server architecture is a distributed application structure that partitions tasks or workloads between the providers of a resource or service, called servers, and service requesters, called clients.
Key Concepts
- Clients: Devices or programs that request services or resources from servers.
- Servers: Systems that provide resources or services to clients.
- Network: The medium through which clients and servers communicate.
Advantages
- Scalability: Easy to scale by adding more servers.
- Centralized Management: Simplifies updates and management.
Disadvantages
- Single Point of Failure: If the server fails, clients cannot access resources.
- Network Dependency: Requires a stable network connection.
Example: Web Browsing
When you browse a website, your browser (client) requests web pages from a web server. The server processes these requests and sends back the requested pages.
GET /index.html HTTP/1.1
Host: www.example.com
Explanation:
The client sends an HTTP GET request to the server. The server processes this request and responds with the requested HTML page.
Example: Email Services
Email clients like Outlook or Gmail request email data from mail servers. The servers handle sending, receiving, and storing emails.
MAIL FROM:
RCPT TO:
DATA
Subject: Hello
Explanation:
The email client communicates with the server using SMTP commands to send emails. The server processes these commands to deliver messages.
Example: File Sharing
Clients can request files from a file server. The server manages file storage and access permissions.
GET /files/report.pdf HTTP/1.1
Host: fileserver.example.com
Explanation:
The client sends a request to the file server for a specific file. The server checks permissions and sends the file if allowed.
Example: Database Access
Applications often act as clients to database servers, requesting data retrieval or updates.
SELECT * FROM users WHERE id = 1;
Explanation:
The client sends a SQL query to the database server. The server executes the query and returns the result set to the client.
Example: Online Gaming
In online games, the game client communicates with a game server to synchronize game state and player actions.
PLAYER_MOVE x=10 y=20
Explanation:
The client sends player movements to the server. The server processes these movements and updates the game state accordingly.
