Web Applications: An Overview

Open Internet standards have changed the architecture of distributed computing forever. The basic language of the Web, HTML, has become a popular language for representing the elements of the user interface. Cross-platform support for scripting languages and Java applets, as well as support for embedded COM components, makes it possible to combine dynamic elements with static text for a more interactive user experience. Web technologies aren't solely for use on the Internet, however. They have been adapted for use by businesses to:

• Create an environment for component-based development.
• Enable distribution of applications throughout an enterprise.
• Create and customize new applications quickly.
• Update databases remotely by using an ordinary Web browser.
• Add transaction processing to Web applications.
• Provide business-to-business information sharing.
• Manage resources and enable remote system administration.

This section outlines general concepts that will assist you in building Web applications, such as the following:

• Building on the Client/Server Architecture: Briefly outlines the history of the traditional client/server design model.
• The New System Design: Introduces n-tier and distributed systems design, as an enhancement to the client/server model.
• Microsoft Windows Distributed interNet Application Architecture: Outlines Microsoft Windows DNA, the Microsoft architecture for building Web applications.
• Internet Information Services Architecture: Reviews the IIS components and programming model.