Question

In a client-server system, a company deploys a database application where multiple users and requests to access and update data stored in a centralized system. The system ensures that all users get consistent and updated information. Which of the following best describes the advantages of this client- server architecture?

• A. Clients performs all processing without relying on the server.
• B. No network is required for communication between clients and server.
• C. Centralized control of data ensures consistency and easier management.
• D. Data is stored separately on each client, improving redundancy.

Hint:

Centralization is the biggest "pro" of client-server models, but it also creates a "Single Point of Failure." If the server goes down, the entire system stops.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
One of the primary motivations for moving from decentralized "peer-to-peer" or standalone systems to a client-server architecture is the benefit of Centralization.

Step 1: Data Consistency.
When data is stored in one central location (the server), any update made by one user is immediately available to all other users. This prevents the "conflicting data" problem where different users might have different versions of a file or record. This is known as "Single Source of Truth."

Step 2: Easier Management and Security.
Because the data and the core application logic are on the server:
• Backups: Administrators only need to back up the server, not every individual user's computer.
• Security: Access controls and firewalls can be hardened at a single entry point.
• Updates: Software patches can often be applied to the server to benefit all clients simultaneously.

Step 3: Scalability and Resource Sharing.
Servers are designed to handle high loads and provide resources (like processing power or high-speed storage) that individual client machines might not have. This allows low-powered "thin clients" to perform complex tasks by offloading the work to the powerful server.