Handbook of Information Security, Volume 1, Key Concepts, Infrastructure, Standards, and Protocols

Client/Server Computing: Principles and Security Considerations

Daniel J. McFarland, Rowan University

Introduction

Client/Server Classification

Presentation/Application/Data Architecture

Tier-Based Client/Server Classification

Server Functionality Client/Server Classification

Targeted Malicious Code

Enabling Technologies

Middleware

Component Software

Networking

Client/Server Implementations

Internet

Intranet

Extranet

Conclusion

Glossary

Cross References

References

INTRODUCTION

The name of an information system often describes the utility it provides. The functionality of a transaction processing system, a decision support system, and an executive information system are self-evident. However, client/server computing is broadly defined; rather than describing system utility, client/server describes the system's architectural configuration. As a result, a client/server system may incorporate a broad range of technologies and address a variety of business situations.

Client/server computing is a form of cooperative processing. Specifically, a client/server system includes at least two software processes working together to provide application functionality. At the most basic level, a client software process requests services from a server software process. In turn, the server process supplies services to the client process. The service request may provide access to an organizational resource, such as a database, a printer, or e-mail.

Client/server computing involves the coordination ...