Question

Identify at least two advantages and two disadvantages of client-side processing. One disadvantage must be an example of a security issue that client-side processing introduces.

Answer 1

Advantages of client-side processing:

1. Reduced server workload: Client-side processing shifts the burden of executing tasks from the server to the client's device. This reduces the load on the server, resulting in improved scalability and performance.

2. Enhanced user experience: By performing processing tasks on the client-side, web applications can respond immediately to user actions. This leads to faster rendering, smoother animations, and overall improved interactivity, resulting in a better user experience.

Disadvantages of client-side processing:

1. Limited device capabilities: Client-side processing relies on the client's device to execute the necessary tasks. This can be problematic if the device lacks the required computational power, memory, or network capabilities to handle complex processing tasks efficiently. It may degrade the overall performance and responsiveness of the application.

2. Security vulnerabilities: Client-side processing introduces security risks, primarily due to the exposure of the processing logic and sensitive data to clients who can inspect and modify it. For instance, if important business logic or sensitive data, such as validation checks or encryption keys, are implemented on the client-side, they can be easily tampered with or bypassed, leading to potential security breaches.