Client-Server

On many networks, software operates according to a client-server pairing of software.

A network user who needs some network service runs a software program called a client, which contacts the computer that offers the desired service on the network.

A server is a computer that offers a service to other computers on a network. The other computers must be running the appropriate client software.

It is important to note that the fundamental distinction between a "client" computer and "server" computer is one of software. What makes a particular computer a client is that it is running client software, software that requests a service. Likewise, what makes another computer a server is simply the fact that it is running server software, software that offers a service to clients.

This chapter was written by Jeff Nyhoff and Joel Adams. Copy editing by Nancy Zylstra
©2005 Calvin University (formerly Calvin College), All Rights Reserved

If you encounter technical errors, contact computing@calvin.edu.