Database Server Responsibilities — Storage vs. Logic vs. Presentation Which responsibility correctly belongs to a database server in a multi-tier architecture?

Introduction:
In layered architectures, each tier has a distinct responsibility. The database server specializes in persistence and query processing. Confusing these boundaries leads to poor system design and performance bottlenecks. This question clarifies which responsibilities belong to the data tier versus the presentation tier.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The database server hosts the DBMS and underlying storage structures.
• It parses, optimizes, and executes SQL; manages transactions and locks.
• It does not render user interfaces; the presentation layer handles UI.

Concept / Approach:
Map each task to the correct tier. Storage and data processing are the core domain of the DB server. Presentation logic (UI rendering, HTML generation, view composition) belongs to the client or application/presentation tier.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Associate database storage with the data tier.2) Associate SQL parsing, optimization, and execution with the DBMS on the data tier.3) Exclude UI rendering from the DB tier; that is the role of the presentation tier.4) Therefore, the correct grouping is A and B only.

Verification / Alternative check:
DBMS manuals and architecture diagrams depict the server responsible for persistence, indexes, caching, concurrency, and transactions—not screen rendering.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Presentation logic: Not a DB server role.
• All of the above: Incorrect because it includes presentation.
• Only A or only B: Too narrow; the DB server does both storage and data processing.

Common Pitfalls:
Embedding presentation code in stored routines blurs separation of concerns and complicates maintainability.

Final Answer:
Both A and B only (not presentation logic).