20
Networking: A Beginner's Guide
NOTE
Don't confuse client/server networks with client/server database systems. While the
two mean essentially the same thing (conceptually), a client/server database is one where the
processing of the database application is divided between the database server and the database
clients. The server is responsible for responding to data requests from the clients and supplying
them with the appropriate data, while the clients are responsible for formatting, displaying, and
printing that data for the user. For instance, Windows Server 2008 is a client/server network
operating system, while Oracle's database or Microsoft's SQL Server are client/server database
systems.
The server computers in a client/server network are responsible for making available
and managing appropriate shared resources, and for administering the security of those
resources. Figure 3-2 shows how resources would be located in such a network.
Comparing Peer-to-Peer and Client/Server Networks
As mentioned earlier, most networks have aspects of both peer-to-peer and client/
server relationships. Before deciding on setting up a network using one or both types of
relationships, you should examine their pros and cons and determine how each meets
the needs of your company. Consider the following advantages and disadvantages of
using each type.
Figure 3-2.
A client/server network keeps resources centralized
Frank's computer
Server
Accounting software (all)
Documents (Frank only)
HR software (Betty only)
Employee reviews (Betty only)
Customer proposals (Bob only)
Marketing software (all)
Bob's computer
Betty's computer
Summary :
20 Networking: A Beginner's Guide NOTE Don't confuse client/server networks with client/server database systems. For instance, Windows Server 2008 is a client/server network operating system, while Oracle's database or Microsoft's SQL Server are client/server database systems.
Tags :
clientserer,database,serer,network,resources,only,software,responsible,computer,while,networks,clients,data