CSEComputer Science & Engineering MapThe connected map of computing knowledge and engineering careers.
Show in graph
WEB

Product → Web Applications

Client-Server Architecture

An architecture where clients request capabilities and servers provide them over a communication channel.

Client-server architecture

Where it fits

Client-server architecture is a foundational product and network pattern. It connects browsers, mobile apps, APIs, web servers, databases, and distributed systems.

Mental model

The client initiates requests. The server owns shared capabilities, data, or coordination. The network is the boundary where latency, security, and failure become visible.

Example

A browser asks a backend API for a user’s dashboard. The backend reads data, applies authorization, and returns a response the browser can render.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming the client can be trusted.
  • Putting secrets in frontend code.
  • Forgetting that every network call can fail or be slow.

Client, server, HTTP, API, web application, authentication.