Mainframes in Modern IT — Role and Characteristics Which statement about mainframe computing is accurate in comparison to client/server systems?
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AIt is the same thing as client/server.
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BIt requires deciding which code should run on the workstation or the server.
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CMission-critical systems have tended to remain on mainframes.
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DAll of the above.
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EMainframes cannot handle transaction processing at scale.
Answer
Correct Answer: Mission-critical systems have tended to remain on mainframes.
Explanation
Introduction:Mainframes remain central to many enterprises for high-volume transaction processing and reliability. This question distinguishes enduring mainframe traits from misconceptions and conflations with client/server computing.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Mainframes emphasize throughput, I/O capacity, and reliability.
- Client/server distributes logic across clients and servers.
- Enterprises often keep core ledgers and transaction systems on mainframes.
Concept / Approach:Identify the statement that reflects real-world deployment trends. Mainframes and client/server are different paradigms. While modernization exists, many mission-critical workloads (banking, airlines, insurance) continue to run on mainframes due to SLAs, performance, and operational maturity.
Step-by-Step Solution:1) Reject equivalence with client/server—architectures differ.2) Reject statements that describe client/server partitioning decisions as unique to mainframes.3) Select the option about mission-critical systems persisting on mainframes.
Verification / Alternative check:Industry surveys and vendor case studies cite long-lived mainframe cores, often exposed via APIs or integration layers to modern applications.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Same as client/server: False; architectural principles are different.
- Workstation/server code decisions: That is a client/server concern, not a mainframe hallmark.
- All of the above: Includes false statements.
- Cannot handle scale: Opposite of mainframe strengths.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming modernization always means abandoning mainframes; in reality, coexistence and integration are common.
Final Answer:Mission-critical systems have tended to remain on mainframes.