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Client/server architecture
An architecture in which the client (personal computer or workstation) is the requesting machine and the server is the supplying machine.

Client/server network
A communications network that uses dedicated servers. In this context, the term is used to contrast it with a peer-to-peer network, which allows any client to also be a server. Can also refer to the network that is processing applications designed for client/server architecture.

Hot-swapping
Some systems allow boards and components to be removed and replaced without turning the system off.

Memory
The workspace that determines the size and number of programs that can be run at the same time, as well as the amount of data that can be processed instantly.

Microprocessor (or processor)
A Central Processsing Unit (CPU), the computing part of a computer, on a single chip.

Server
A computer in a network shared by multiple users. The term may refer to both the hardware and software or just the software that performs the service.

Server application
An application designed to run on a server.

Thin servers
Thin servers are simple servers that come with preloaded software, and perform one function or a related range of functions, like sharing or printing files, handling email, accessing the Web, hosting Web pages or enabling e-commerce. Also called Internet or server appliances.