What is the primary function of a Client-Server architecture?

The primary function of a Client-Server architecture is to provide services requested by client software from server software. In this model, clients typically make requests to servers, which then process those requests and respond with the appropriate data or services. This separation of concerns allows each component to specialize; the client is optimized for user interaction and presentation, while the server handles data storage, processing, and other backend tasks.

This architecture supports scalability, as multiple clients can interact with a single server or a group of servers. It also facilitates resource management and security, as sensitive data and processing are centralized on the server rather than being distributed across all clients.

In terms of the other options, storing data exclusively on the client side does not align with the client-server model, where data management is typically centralized on the server. Creating a direct connection between two clients suggests a peer-to-peer model, which differs from the client-server approach. Finally, enhancing the graphics performance of a web application is not a fundamental characteristic of client-server architecture; while clients may handle local rendering, that is not its primary function.