The client-server expression refers to a network architecture in which a client computer connects to a server to use a service. Thanks to the servers, different clients can share hardware and software resources, relying on the protocol architecture. LANs, local company networks, the Internet, computer systems, and operating systems are all organized on the typical client-server architecture and can thus use their respective services.
What Is A Client
A client is any software component present on a host machine that, thanks to client-server communication protocols, can access a server’s services and resources. So a computer connected to a server via a computer network can use one or more network protocols to access services, which is the typical client-server architecture.
What Is A Server
A server is a computer component for processing and managing information traffic that provides services to other members (called clients) who request them. The request for access to assistance from the client to the server can be conveyed over a computer network, within a computer system, or even directly locally on a single PC. The servers provide various hardware and software services and can share them between one or more clients. This architecture is called a client-server system. Among the most popular servers are:
- Database server
- File server
- E-mail server
- Print server
- Web server
- Game server
- Application server
How The Client-Server Architecture Works
The central IT systems such as e-mail, database, and web are structured with a client part (physically located and running on the client PC) and a server part (physically located and running on the server). An email program is one of the most concrete examples of client-server architecture. The client is the mail software (such as Outlook, Mozilla, …) and communicates with the server through SMTP, POP, or IMAP protocols. In recent years, clients no longer installed on the local network but web-based, that is, those that use the Internet, have also become increasingly widespread. So, in this case, you don’t have to install a client component locally because the browser plays the client role.
The Server For Greater Corporate Security
Having a company server certainly guarantees greater security and control. Here are some of the main functions that a company server can perform:
- Database center: in addition to storing the data produced by the various company databases, they can be saved and secured periodically with backups.
- Antivirus server: centralizing this service helps manage all antivirus updates and scans for all company devices singly and uniformly.
- Mail server: all corporate email can be collected and saved on the server, which also allows for sharing address books and contacts between all directions and internal offices.
- Remote access server: this feature, which is now well known with the spread of intelligent working, was also used by various companies to allow employees on business trips to work remotely.
- Web server: this service helps host your company website, intranet, and any other portals
Corporate Security Of Clients And Networks
Any company of any size must have an IT security plan. But to define actions and tools, one must first know one’s assets in terms of devices, resources, and networks. Therefore, it is necessary to map the client-server architecture, all the IT infrastructure, and, more generally, all the corporate IT resources, devices, and equipment. Network security is therefore guaranteed by the set of strategies, procedures, and technologies to protect the corporate network from unauthorized external access.
Hacker attacks are increasingly widespread and numerous; therefore, it is necessary to implement actions to protect corporate networks by minimizing damage from potential external attacks. The breach of the corporate network can mean the loss of essential data and legal problems related to privacy and security.
A Business Continuity Plan
In addition to preventing external threats and attacks from penetrating the corporate network, companies must also have an action plan that allows the company to guarantee business continuity in the event of an attack. Therefore, corporate IT security experts must create a real emergency plan which indicates all the activities that must be started in the company in the event of a cyber attack. A cyber incident could cause significant business losses and jeopardize its business continuity. Today there are many solutions and products available to implement a corporate security plan and guarantee a good level of cyber security.
IT Security
Cyber security is the practice of protecting computer networks and user data from unauthorized access or theft. This can include anything from installing antivirus software to configuring firewalls to monitoring your network for suspicious activity. By taking these precautions, you can protect your data, devices, and users from cybercrime.
