A front-end processor (FEP) is a computer that helps the main computer control the other connected machines within a network. It reduces the main computer’s processing load, which otherwise would require a lot of computer resources, by processing part of the data. The FEP’s processing capacity can range from ordinary to very powerful, depending on the number of nodes it needs to handle. These computers are capable of intercepting data transmissions and come with security features to help administrators. The front-end process refers to the software interface between the user and the application processes in the client/server architecture.
By using a front-end processor, users can input data, which is then collected and processed by the front-end process so that it matches what the receiving application can accept and handle. For instance, by entering a URL into a graphical user interface like Microsoft Internet Explorer, the interface processes the URL and enables the user to access the desired web pages on the server’s back-end process. Front-end processors can also efficiently use the host CPU by delegating peripheral control processing to another device or controller.
While FEPs can provide only direct connectivity under certain conditions, they offer other vital functions that closely relate to transactional applications. Examples include message and transaction switching, transaction security, end-to-end transaction management and reporting, quality of service guarantees, and multiplexing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of a front-end processor?
The primary function of a front-end processor is to reduce the main computer’s processing load by processing part of the data. This helps improve the network’s overall performance.
What is the front-end process?
The front-end process refers to the software interface between the user (client) and the application processes (server) in the client/server architecture.
What functions does a front-end processor perform?
In addition to providing direct connectivity, front-end processors perform various functions that closely relate to transactional applications. These include message and transaction switching, transaction security, end-to-end transaction management and reporting, quality of service guarantees, and multiplexing.
Conclusion
Front-end processors play a crucial role in improving a network’s performance by reducing the main computer’s processing load and processing part of the data. They also offer other essential functions that closely relate to transactional applications, such as transaction security, end-to-end transaction management and reporting, quality of service guarantees, and multiplexing.
