Client-Server Model

IP Address

An IP address is a unique string of numbers, typically separated by dots (IPv4) or colons (IPv6), that identifies each device using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network. IP addresses enable devices to locate and connect with each other on local networks or the internet.

Client-Server Model

The client-server model is a popular framework for computer networking, where devices are divided into clients and servers, each with specific roles and responsibilities. This model is widely used on the internet and in Local Area Networks (LANs).

  • Client Devices: Clients are devices, often personal computers or mobile devices, with network software that allows them to send requests and receive information over the network.
  • Server Devices: Servers are devices designed to store data, host databases, and manage complex applications like websites. They often have high-powered processors, large amounts of memory, and extensive storage capacity to handle requests from multiple clients simultaneously.

Client-Server Applications

In client-server applications, network clients send messages to servers to request specific information or services. Servers then process these requests and return the relevant information or perform specific actions. This model supports various popular internet applications, such as email, file sharing, and web browsing, where a single server can serve multiple clients.

Internet Services

The internet provides a variety of essential services, including:

  1. World Wide Web (WWW): A system of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via web browsers.
  2. Email: Allows users to send and receive messages over the internet.
  3. Videoconferencing (VC): Facilitates real-time video and audio communication between users at different locations.
  4. Instant Messaging (IM): Enables real-time text-based communication between users.
  5. Social Networks: Platforms where users can connect, share content, and communicate.
  6. File Synchronization: Allows users to keep files consistent across multiple devices.
  7. Search Engines: Tools for finding information on the internet.
  8. Online Encyclopedias: Resources for free, community-sourced information (e.g., Wikipedia).
  9. Cloud Storage and File Sharing: Services like Google Drive and Dropbox, allowing users to store and share files remotely.

These services represent only a few examples of how the client-server model enables modern internet functionality.