Client-server computing refers to the architecture in which individual PC workstations are connected to a powerful server by means of a local area network (LAN). The PC workstation acts as a client by requesting data from the server. The server processes the request and returns the desired result to the client.
Essbase is built as a client-server system. System performance and multiuser capabilities are greatly enhanced in the Essbase client-server environment.
Essbase server is a multidimensional database that supports analysis of an unlimited number of data dimensions and an unlimited number of members within these dimensions. Developed using a true client-server architecture, all data, the database outline, the calculations, and the data security controls reside on the Essbase server.
The Essbase server operates on Windows 98, Windows NT 4.0, Windows Me, Windows 2000, and UNIX operating systems.
Essbase Spreadsheet Add-in is a software program that merges seamlessly with Microsoft Excel and Lotus 1-2-3. After Essbase is installed, a special menu is added to Excel. The menu provides enhanced commands such as Connect, Pivot, Drill-down, and Calculate. Users can access and analyze data on the Essbase server by using simple mouse clicks and drag-and-drop operations. Essbase Spreadsheet Add-in enables multiple users to access and update data on the Essbase server simultaneously.
Essbase runs on PC-based LANs that support the Named Pipes or TCP/IP protocol.