Pros & Cons of Client-Server Model
Computer Science: OCR GCSE, topic 1.3.6
Pros of the Client-Server Model
The client-server model works well for almost all network communications, but it isn't always the best way.
Centralised server
- User's files can be stored centrally so it is easy to access them from any networked computer.
- Team members can easily share files.
Monitoring
- Client machines can be monitored centrally.
- This means that administrators can make sure that nobody breaks the terms and conditions of the network.
- User accounts can be managed centrally. For example, an administrator could:
- Retrieve lost files.
- Recover lost passwords.
Security
- Software and security updates can be managed centrally and applied to all computers.
- This saves time.
Cons of the Client-Server Model
The client-server model works well for almost all network communications, but it isn't always the best way.
Risk of downtime
- If the central server fails, then the whole of the network would not be able to function.
High cost
- Server hardware is usually very expensive.
Security
- Servers are often targeted in cyber attacks such as:
- Ransomware attacks.
- Denial of service attacks.
Test yourself on Pros & Cons of Client-Server Model
What central management could a network administrator perform?
Why might a network administrator want to apply security updates using a client-server model?
Which of these events could break an entire client-server network?