A client is a computer hardware or software that interfaces with a server to access services. This setup forms part of the client-server model. There are two classifications or types of clients. These are thick client and thin client. A hybrid client is a third classification that combines the characteristics of both thick client and thin client.
There are many examples and applications of a client. A web browser such as Google Chrome or Safari from Apple is a web client that interfaces with a web server to retrieve and display web pages. Moreover, an email client, including free email services such as Gmail and Yahoo! Mail, retrieves email messages from a mail server.
Thick Client vs Thin Client: What is the Difference?
A thick client is a client that performs functions independent of a serve. Common examples of these functions include storing and retrieving data and programs or applications, and localized data processing. A thick client is also known as a fat client or rich client.
Personal computers connected to a local area network, cloud computing or virtual servers, or the internet are prime examples of a thick client. A personal computer must be used primarily in a networked environment for it to be considered as a thick client.
Collaboration and subscription-based applications installed in or accessed using via a particular computing device are other examples of a thick client. Notable examples of these applications include Microsoft Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud.
A thin client is a client that is dependent on a server for accessing data and running programs or apps. The server does most of the computing-related workloads. This means that a thin client is critically dependent on the hardware resources of a particular server computer.
A personal computer can also work as a thin client if it is used for accessing programs stored on a server. Most thin client computers are lightweight in terms of hardware specifications. An example of a thin client computer is the Chromebook.
Several web-based apps such as WordPress and Google Docs are also examples of thin clients. Devices used for media streaming such as Apple TV or Roku that are installed with streaming services such as Netflix or Spotify are also notable examples.
The design and implementation of a client-server architecture involves choosing between a thick client and a thin client. It is also worth mentioning that a client-server architecture based on a thin client architecture can also be called a cloud-based architecture.
Advantages of Thick Client: The Drawbacks of Thin Clients
Below is a list of benefits or advantages of thick clients. Note that these advantages also correspond to the drawbacks or disadvantages of thin clients.
1. Rich Graphic User Interface
One of the notable advantages of a thick client involves the capability to deliver a rich graphical user interface for a more immersive user experience. Examples of such interfaces include a fully featured operating system, immersive computer programs or applications, and graphic-intensive video games. Thin clients are unable to render rich graphics due to limitations in processing or computing capabilities and available storage space.
2. Better Data and Program Processing
A prominent drawback of thin clients is their inability to locally process their own data and/or programs. On the other hand, similar to the capability of delivering a rich graphical user interface, thick clients can perform resource-intensive data and application processing. Specific examples include running an application for editing video or audio content, playing video games, data processing, and computer simulation, among others.
3. Server Performance Efficiency
A client-server architecture based on thick clients does not need high-performing servers. This is because processing and other hardware functionalities transpire at the local or individual level rather than a centralized spot. This advantage means less costs from buying, installing, and maintaining high-performing servers. This advantage also means that the server can support more users and this translates to a higher server capacity.
4. Can Work Offline
Independence from servers or a networked environment is another one of the advantages of thick clients. These clients do not need a consistent and persistent network connection, unlike thin clients that are dependent on continuously interfacing with their servers. They are usable and remain functional even when offline. However, from time to time, thick clients still need to connect to their servers for sharing and synchronizing data with the network.
Advantages of Thin Client: The Drawbacks of Thick Clients
Below is a list of the benefits or advantages of thin clients. Note that these advantages also correspond to the drawbacks or disadvantages of thick clients.
1. Optimization of Hardware Resources
Fewer hardware requirements are one of the main advantages of thin clients over thick clients. Remember that thin clients depend on the hardware resources of the server. Furthermore, in client-server architectures based on thin clients, there is fewer need for cabling, interfacing, bussing, and switching. This advantage also translates to cost-effectiveness. Thin clients are essentially more inexpensive to implement than thick clients.
2. Less Hardware and Software Maintenance
Thick clients are standalone computer terminals with their own hardware resources and operating systems. This can be a disadvantage as far as the hardware and software maintenance of a fleet of computers using this client-server architecture. Hence, based on this, another notable advantage of thin clients includes easier hardware and software administration, troubleshooting, system or application patching, security updates, and data migration.
3. Fewer Security Vulnerabilities
The fact that applications and files or data reside in a centralized location, specifically the server, means that they are easily and centrally administered, monitored, and protected through the use of hardware-based or software-based security firewalls and other data protection mechanisms and standards. There is a lesser chance of compromising software and data assets in case a single or several computer terminals malfunction or are stolen.
4. Cost Effectiveness and Efficiency
It is important to underscore that inexpensiveness is an advantage of thin clients. Remember that resource optimization, reduced maintenance, and better security translate to a more cost-effective implementation compared to thick clients. This inexpensiveness is the reason why client-server architectures based on thin clients are popular across educational, other nonprofit, and business environments where financial resources are of critical importance.
