Networked and Non-Networked Mode in "Real World"

[Javini Javono]

Hi,
Does anyone know of any "real world"
examples where one would construct an application
wherein the client had the option between running
the application in networked or non-networked mode;
or, would it perhaps be used during software development
only (but, if so, why not use "loop back" using localhost?).
Thanks,
Javini Javono
[ January 24, 2004: Message edited by: Javini Javono ]

[james airey]

how about an internet enabled computer game.
you can run in solo mode, or as a server for many players, or as a client with many players.

[Xie Ruchang]

Hi Javini
This is very common in mobile applications due to limited connectivity. The application will connected to the database in network mode. Get a snapshot of it, go the the actual site, no network, could be warehouse or even clinic in the case of doctors, work on the limited data. Then, get into the network mode and perform any synchronisation when necessary.
For desktop and enterprise applications, usually when operate in non-network mode is when some highly secure operations that need to be performed and all other network connections have to be closed so that the operation will not be interfered.
IMHO, loopback networking is used for development testing. In the real deployment, once the application is deployed, regardless whether is local or remote, the same IP address can be used. Security can be attached to IP address for very secure application and 127.0.0.1 is not acceptable. For example, MYSQL server can config to do that.
Best Regards