Client-Server Basics

In the previous rooms, we looked at different types of computers and how computers are used at work. Initially, most computers worked alone: they stored their own files, ran their own programs, and did not communicate with other computers.

Soon, multiple organizations around the world started with the idea of interconnecting these systems to facilitate information exchange and resource sharing regardless of distance. Hence, the precursors of the "internet" were born. Networks such as ARPANET, CYCLADES, NPL, and NSFNET paved the way for the modern internet.

Just like in society, where people distinguish themselves with a particular set of skills and offer these as a service, interconnected systems started to specialize as well. So how does this work? How are computer systems able to use services on another computer system? At the end of this room, you will know the answer to these questions.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the Client-Server model
• Understand the following concepts on a surface level:
  • DNS
  • Client
  • Server
  • Port
  • Protocol
  • Network

Prerequisites

• Coming soon: Inside a Computer System
• Coming soon: Types of Computers