Client/Server Vs. DDBMS or Advantages of Client/Server Architecture
Client/server architecture refers to the way in which computers interact to form a system. The client/server architecture features a user of resources, or a client, and a provider of resources, or a server.
The client/server architecture can be used to implement a DBMS in which the client is the TP and the server is the DP. Client/server interactions in a DDBMS are carefully scripted.
The client (TP) interacts with the end user and sends a request to the server (DP). The server receives, schedules, and executes the request, selecting only those records that are needed by the client. The server then sends the data to the client only when the client requests the data.
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Client/server applications offer several advantages:
1. Client/server solutions tend to be less expensive than alternate midrange computer or mainframe solutions in terms of startup infrastructure requirements.
2. Client/server solutions allow the end user to use the PC’s GUI, thereby improving functionality and simplicity. In particular, using the ubiquitous Web browser in conjunction with Java and .NET frameworks provides a familiar end-user interface.
3. More people in the job market have PC skills than mainframe skills. The majority of current students are learning Java and .NET programming skills.
4. The PC is well established in the workplace. In addition, the increased use of the Internet as a business channel, coupled with security advances (SSL/TLS, virtual private networks, multifactor authentication, etc.) provide a more reliable and secure platform for business transactions.
5. Numerous data analysis and query tools exist to facilitate interaction with many of the DBMSs that are available in the PC market.
6. There is a considerable cost advantage to offloading applications development from the mainframe to powerful PCs.
Client/server applications are also subject to some disadvantages:
1. The client/server architecture creates a more complex environment in which different platforms (LANs, operating systems, and so on) are often difficult to manage.
2. An increase in the number of users and processing sites often paves the way for security problems.
3. The client/server environment makes it possible to spread data access to a much wider circle of users. Such an environment increases the demand for people with a broad knowledge of computers and software applications. The burden of training increases the cost of maintaining the environment.
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