In a client-server architecture or network, a thick client (also known as a fat client) often offers robust capability without relying on the server. The majority of the processing in these applications is carried out on the client side.
Desktop applications, also known as "thick client" applications, are fully functional PCs that are networked. Thick clients are functional whether they are connected to a network or not, in contrast to thin clients, which lack hard drives and other functionality.
A thick client is completely functioning even when not connected to the internet, but it is only a "client" when it is. Programs and files that are not kept on the local machine's hard drive could be made available to the thick client by the server.
In other words, it is a networked computer with a local installation of the majority of the resources. In fact, most thick clients may be utilized offline, that is, when not connected to a network or server, and have their own operating system and software programs.
Thick client apps have been used for many years and are still utilized by a wide range of businesses of all shapes and sizes. Thin-client apps may become a more attractive target for attackers as a result of the development of hybrid infrastructure architectures.
Thick client application security describes the steps required to safeguard thick client applications, which are computer or device software applications that run on end users' computers or other devices and demand a lot of resources and processing power. These programs frequently work with sensitive data and are open to many forms of assault, such as malware, phishing, and hacking.
Application layer vulnerabilities are common, and some of them may be serious enough to expose consumer data or undermine a system. Instead of merely concentrating on managing the application server, the IT staff must maintain and upgrade all systems for software deployment in order to preserve a thick client.
When performing internal audits and valuing security, corporations usually ignore thick client/fat client applications. Thick client evaluations are a difficult task, but many firms do not have enough internal security professionals who are equipped with the necessary knowledge and experience.
A client program that can offer rich functionality without relying on the server in a network is referred to as a "thick client," also known as a "fat client." The majority of thick client operations can be carried out without an active server connection. While they do occasionally need to connect to a network on the central server, they can operate independently and may contain locally stored resources.
On the other hand, a "thin client" is a client program or computer that requires a connection to the server in order to work. Thin clients rely heavily on server access each time they need to analyze or validate input data because they perform as little processing on their own as is feasible.