Terminology » Networking Basics » Client vs. Server: Understanding the Key Differences

Client vs. Server: Understanding the Key Differences

client server network architecture distributed system peer to peer networking basics

This article compares clients and servers, highlighting their key differences. It also introduces the basic client-server architecture model and explains the roles of each component.

Role of Client and Server

Client: A computing device that requests services. This includes desktops, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and even software programs that interact with servers.

Server: A computing device that offers or provides services. Servers can be large, powerful computers, but even a desktop PC can function as a server.

Client-Server Architecture Model (Internet Based)

The figure below illustrates an internet-based client-server architecture model.

Client Server Architecture Client Server Architecture

  • Examples of applications using client-server architecture include the World Wide Web (WWW), email, and network printing.
  • Different types of servers exist, such as web servers and file servers.
    • A web server serves web pages to requesting clients.
    • A file server delivers files to clients.
  • Different protocols are used for communication between clients and servers.
    • Web servers commonly use HTTP/HTTPS.
    • File servers often use FTP/TFTP.

Other essential servers in internet architecture include DHCP and DNS servers.

  • DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): Clients use DHCP to obtain IP addresses dynamically.
  • DNS (Domain Name System): When you enter a website’s domain name (e.g., google.com) in your browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.), DNS converts that name into a suitable IP address, allowing you to visit the site.

Client-Server Architecture Model: Different Modes

The figure below depicts client-server architecture in two different modes:

Client Server versus peer-to-peer architecture Client Server versus peer-to-peer architecture

There are various architecture types based on the client-server model, including distributed and peer-to-peer architectures.

Distributed Architecture

  • In a distributed architecture, one or more dedicated machines function solely as servers, while all other machines are clients.
  • Clients communicate through the server in this scenario.
  • The client initiates the communication.
  • The client sends a request to the server.
  • The server replies or performs a service.

Peer-to-Peer Architecture

  • In peer-to-peer architecture, each host or instance of an application program can function as both a client and a server simultaneously.
  • Each peer has equivalent responsibilities and status.
  • Any participant can initiate communication.
  • Any device can generate a request.
  • Any device can provide a response.