What does "client-side" refer to in a client/server architecture?

In the context of client/server architecture, "client-side" specifically refers to operations or processes that occur on the user's device, or client, rather than on the server. This means that any computations, data processing, or interactions that take place directly on the individual user's computer, tablet, or mobile device are considered client-side operations.

Client-side can encompass activities such as rendering web pages in a browser, executing client-side scripts like JavaScript, and handling user inputs directly before any data is sent to the server for further processing. The advantage of client-side processing is that it can reduce the load on the server since it allows for faster interactions and a more responsive user experience, as users can perform certain actions without needing to constantly communicate with the server.

In contrast, operations conducted on the server, data stored on a network, or administrative updates are not considered client-side activities. They occur on the server or network infrastructure, which are integral components of the broader client/server architecture but are distinct from the client-side focus.