Server-based computing is an architectural model wherein all the computing resources, such as the data and applications, exist on a centralized server instead of individual client (user) devices.
In server-based computing, all the processing, storage, and data management happens on that centralized server. This allows users to access these resources on the server via thin clients (computer devices that get resources from a central server and not an HDD.)
As everything happens on a centralized server, individual users do not require high-end devices. Also, SBC reduces dependency on client-side hardware and allows businesses to scale their resources as required to improve performance, productivity, and cost efficiency.
Here are the components of server-based computing that help centralize and streamline IT operations:
Centralized servers are the core of server-based computing as they handle heavy tasks like data processing, application hosting, and storage-related tasks. These servers have high processing power and memory, which is good enough to allow smooth operations across multiple thin clients (more on this in the next section) or user devices.
Thin clients are minimalist computer devices that possess limited processing power. These devices, instead of connecting to a hard drive, connect to centralized servers to access data and applications.
As thin clients rely on the centralized server for heavy computational tasks, they’re cost-effective and easier to manage than their fat client counterparts.
In server-based computing, all the apps are centralized on a single server. This allows users to access the apps remotely from different thin clients or devices. As the apps are centralized and hosted on the server, users don’t have to install or upgrade them on individual devices, offering a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Another important component of server-based computing is a reliable and fast network infrastructure that comprises wide area networks (WAN) and local area networks (LAN).
The network infrastructure connects the clients with the servers through routers, switches, and firewalls. This allows a seamless flow of communication between the thin clients and the server while protecting the data against potential attacks.
Here’s what makes server-based computing important for modern IT infrastructure
With server-based computing, all the resources are consolidated under one roof: a centralized server. IT managers can manage software updates, security patches, and configuration changes from a centralized location. This saves time and resources and eliminates the need to cater to the needs of individual devices.
In server-based computing, applications and sensitive data are stored on a centralized server instead of on local devices. Centralized servers are equipped with more robust security measures, including access management and encryption, significantly reducing the chances of data breaches.
Users also access data stored on the servers via thin clients, which remain unaffected by viruses and malware, offering an even more secure working environment.
Server-based computing allows organizations to deploy thin clients instead of standalone PCs. These thin clients allow users to perform normally like standalone PCs but are less expensive and require minimal maintenance as they have no moving parts and emit minimal heat. And this lowers the overall costs.
Here are some use cases of server-based computing in real life:
VDI, or virtual desktop infrastructure, is one of the most common use cases of server-based computing. With VDI, users can remotely access a virtual desktop that is hosted on a centralized server on any device, even their personal computers.
This is particularly useful for organizations with a remote workforce looking forward to reducing their hardware management expenses. VDI isn’t there just to save hardware costs. It also ensures that the data stays on secure servers while users can access the environment seamlessly.
SBC is used in the healthcare industry to manage medical imaging and Electronic Health Records. Centralized storage of data and apps enables healthcare professionals to access patient records and other critical information from any device. This helps save time, improve response time, and foster collaboration across departments.
In addition, centralized storage allows healthcare organizations to meet compliance requirements related to data security.
Here are some challenges that come with server-based computing:
While thin clients used in SBC are cheap to buy and maintain, there can be high initial setup costs that organizations may have to pay for:
Buying software and hardware licenses
Setting up strong networks
Server-based computing relies heavily on network connection. If the network is robust, users can access data instantly. And if there’s a glitch, users might face a lag or complete cessation of the connection, leading to delays and loss in productivity.
Therefore, organizations must invest in top-notch networking equipment to ensure stable connections and smooth operations.
While storing everything on a centralized server is a great advantage, it can sometimes be problematic, especially during a server failure, cyberattacks, or scheduled maintenance. Because it would block the access of multiple users connected to the same server.
Here are some alternatives to server-based computing:
Cloud computing is a popular alternative to server-based computing (SBC). In this type of computing, data is stored on remote servers managed by cloud service providers. Unlike SBC, cloud computing allows for greater scalability and is more affordable because there are no hardware setup costs.
Hybrid solutions combine on-site servers and cloud services. In this model, organizations can maintain critical data and apps on local servers while using the cloud for backup and scalability.
In edge computing, the data is stored and processed closer to the data source, such as regional data centers. This helps reduce latency and enables faster data processing, which is crucial for real-time data analysis, such as in IoT devices and autonomous vehicles.
Unlike SBC, where all the data is centralized, edge computing spreads the processing power to the network’s edge, improving speed and reliability.
In server-based computing, the data is stored in a centralized, on-site server or their own data centers. And the initial setup costs for setting up and configuring a centralized server can be quite high.
In cloud computing, on the other hand, resources are hosted on 3rd party remote servers, managed end-to-end by the service provider. This makes cloud computing way more affordable and efficient.
Both thin and thick clients are computer devices with different capabilities.
Thin clients require a network connection to access resources from a centralized server. They are minimalistic devices with limited capability and no moving parts, as their job is to connect the users to the centralized server, which has all the power.
Thick clients, on the other hand, don’t need a network connection to access resources as data and apps are stored in their hard drives. These computer devices possess high processing power as everything happens on the machine itself and not on some sever.