E COMMERCE

UNIT 1:

Overview of developments in Information Technology and Defining E-Commerce:

The scope of E commerce, Electronic Market, Electronic Data Interchange, Internet
Commerce, Benefits, and limitations of E-Commerce, Produce a generic
framework for E-Commerce, Architectural framework of Electronic Commerce

1. Overview of Developments in Information Technology

Information Technology (IT) encompasses the use of computers, networks, and

other technologies to process and manage information. The development of IT has
seen several transformative phases:

Early Developments (1950s-1970s):

• Mainframe Computers: Early computers like the IBM 7094 were large,
expensive, and used primarily by large corporations and governments for data
processing and scientific calculations.
• Transistors and Integrated Circuits: The invention of transistors (1947) and
integrated circuits (1958) revolutionized computing by making computers
smaller, faster, and more reliable.

Personal Computers and Networking (1980s-1990s):

• Personal Computers (PCs): The introduction of PCs, such as the IBM PC

and Apple Macintosh, made computing accessible to individuals and small
businesses. PCs were equipped with graphical user interfaces (GUIs), which
made them user-friendly.
• Networking Technologies: The development of Ethernet (1973) and the
TCP/IP protocol (1983) enabled the creation of local area networks (LANs)
and the broader internet, facilitating data exchange and connectivity.

Internet and World Wide Web (1990s-2000s):

• World Wide Web: Invented by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989, the web introduced
hypertext and web browsers, allowing users to navigate interconnected
documents. The first browser, Mosaic, was released in 1993, popularizing the
web.
• E-Commerce and Online Services: The rise of e-commerce platforms like
Amazon (founded in 1994) transformed retail, allowing transactions and
services to be offered online.

Mobile and Cloud Computing (2000s-Present):

• Mobile Computing: The launch of smartphones (e.g., iPhone in 2007) and

tablets brought portable computing power to users, facilitating mobile internet
access and app-based services.
 • Cloud Computing: Services like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and
Microsoft Azure provide scalable computing resources over the internet,
allowing businesses to run applications and store data without maintaining
physical infrastructure.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (Present-Future):

• AI and ML: These technologies enable systems to learn from data and
improve over time. Applications range from recommendation systems (like
those used by Netflix) to autonomous vehicles.

Example: The transition from mainframe computers to cloud computing illustrates

the rapid advancement in IT. For instance, whereas early data processing was
confined to expensive mainframes, today’s cloud services offer scalable solutions
accessible via the internet.

2. Defining E-Commerce: The Scope of E-Commerce

E-Commerce (Electronic Commerce) refers to conducting business transactions

over the internet. It encompasses various aspects:

Defining E-Commerce:

• Definition: E-commerce involves buying and selling goods and services, as

well as the transfer of funds and data, over electronic networks like the
internet.
• Types: E-commerce can be categorized into several types based on the
participants involved.

Scope of E-Commerce:

Business-to-Consumer (B2C):

o Definition: Transactions between businesses and individual

consumers.
o Examples: Online retail stores like Amazon or clothing brands selling
directly to consumers.

Business-to-Business (B2B):

o Definition: Transactions between businesses, often involving

wholesale and supply chain activities.
o Examples: Manufacturers purchasing raw materials from suppliers, or
software providers selling enterprise solutions to other businesses.

Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C):
 o Definition: Transactions between individual consumers, typically
facilitated by a third-party platform.
o Examples: Platforms like eBay and Craigslist where individuals sell
items to other individuals.

Consumer-to-Business (C2B):

o Definition: Transactions where individual consumers offer products or

services to businesses.
o Examples: Freelancers providing services through platforms like
Upwork, or individuals selling stock photos to companies.

Mobile Commerce (M-Commerce):

o Definition: Conducting commercial transactions through mobile

devices.
o Examples: Mobile banking apps, shopping apps like Amazon’s mobile
app, and mobile payment systems like Apple Pay.

Example: The scope of e-commerce is well illustrated by Amazon’s operations,

which span B2C through its retail platform, B2B through its Amazon Business
service, and C2C through its marketplace for third-party sellers.

3. Electronic Market

Electronic Markets are online platforms where buyers and sellers engage in
transactions. These markets can vary in form and function:

Types of Electronic Markets:

Marketplaces:

o Definition: Platforms that allow multiple sellers to list and sell their
products or services.
o Examples: Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. These platforms facilitate a wide
range of goods and services from various sellers.

Auction Sites:

o Definition: Platforms where items are sold to the highest bidder.

o Examples: eBay is a prominent example where users can bid on items
until the auction closes.

Vertical Markets:

o Definition: Specialized platforms focused on specific industries or

product categories.
 o Examples: Alibaba, which focuses on wholesale trade and
manufacturing, or HealthCare.com for health-related products and
services.

Features:

• Search and Discovery: Tools and filters that help users find products or
services quickly.
• Transaction Management: Systems that handle order processing, payment,
and delivery.
• User Reviews and Ratings: Mechanisms for providing feedback on sellers
and products, helping to build trust.

Example: Amazon’s marketplace allows various sellers to list their products

alongside Amazon’s own inventory, providing a diverse range of products and
enabling competition.

4. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the electronic exchange of standardized

business documents between organizations. EDI aims to streamline and automate
business processes.

Components of EDI:

Standard Formats:

o Definition: EDI uses standardized document formats to ensure

consistency and compatibility between different systems.
o Examples: EDIFACT (Electronic Data Interchange for
Administration, Commerce, and Transport) and ANSI X12 are widely
used EDI standards.

EDI Transmissions:

o Definition: Methods for transmitting EDI documents securely between

organizations.
o Examples: Value-Added Networks (VANs) act as intermediaries to
facilitate EDI communication, while direct connections between
businesses also exist.

Benefits:

• Speed: Accelerates the exchange of documents and reduces processing time.

• Accuracy: Minimizes errors associated with manual data entry.
• Cost Reduction: Reduces costs related to paper, postage, and manual
handling.
Example: A retailer might use EDI to receive purchase orders and send invoices
electronically to a supplier, significantly speeding up the procurement process and
reducing errors compared to traditional methods.

5. Internet Commerce

Internet Commerce, also known as e-commerce, refers specifically to transactions

conducted over the internet. It involves several components and processes:

Key Components:

Websites and Online Stores:

o Definition: Platforms where transactions occur, typically featuring

product listings, shopping carts, and checkout processes.
o Examples: Shopify and WooCommerce allow businesses to set up
online stores and manage sales.

Payment Gateways:

o Definition: Systems that facilitate online payment transactions

between buyers and sellers.
o Examples: PayPal, Stripe, and Square provide secure payment
processing for online purchases.

Customer Interaction:

o Definition: Tools and techniques used to engage with customers,

handle inquiries, and provide support.
o Examples: Live chat support, email marketing campaigns, and
customer feedback systems.

Example: An e-commerce website like Shopify enables businesses to create online

stores, process payments through integrated gateways, and use customer support tools
to interact with buyers.

6. Benefits and Limitations of E-Commerce

Benefits:

Global Reach:

o Definition: E-commerce allows businesses to reach customers

worldwide without geographic limitations.
o Example: A small boutique can sell its products internationally
through an online store, accessing markets beyond its local area.
 Convenience:

o Definition: E-commerce provides the ability to shop and conduct

transactions 24/7 from any location.
o Example: Consumers can purchase items online at any time, without
needing to visit physical stores.

Cost Efficiency:

o Definition: Lower operational costs compared to maintaining physical

stores, including savings on rent, utilities, and staffing.
o Example: An online-only retailer avoids the expenses associated with
running a brick-and-mortar store

Personalization:

o Definition: E-commerce platforms can offer personalized

recommendations based on user behavior and preferences.
o Example: Amazon’s recommendation engine suggests products based
on a user’s browsing history and previous purchases.

Limitations:

Security Risks:

o Definition: Online transactions are susceptible to fraud, data breaches,

and cyberattacks.
o Example: Data breaches at major e-commerce sites can expose
customer information, leading to potential identity theft.

Technical Issues:

o Definition: Reliance on technology means that website downtime or

technical problems can disrupt business operations.
o Example: An e-commerce site experiencing server outages may
prevent customers from making purchases, affecting sales.

Privacy Concerns:

o Definition: Handling of personal and financial information raises

privacy issues, requiring robust data protection measures.
o Example: Customers are concerned about how their data is collected,
stored, and used by online businesses.

Lack of Physical Inspection:

o Definition: Customers cannot physically examine products before

purchasing, which may lead to dissatisfaction with the received items.
o Example: Online shoppers may face challenges when buying clothing
without trying it on, leading to returns and exchanges.
Example: While Amazon offers convenience and a global reach, it must address
security concerns and ensure privacy protections to maintain customer trust.

7. Generic Framework for E-Commerce

A generic framework for e-commerce outlines the essential components and

processes involved in conducting online business:

Frontend:

o User Interface: The website or application where users interact,

including product catalogs, search functions, and checkout pages.
o Shopping Cart: A system for managing items selected for purchase,
allowing users to review and modify their orders before checkout.

Backend:

o Database Management: Stores information about products, users,

orders, and transactions. Databases like MySQL or MongoDB are
commonly used.
o Order Processing: Manages the steps involved in fulfilling orders,
including payment verification, inventory updates, and shipping
arrangements.

Payment Processing:

o Payment Gateways: Interfaces with financial institutions to process

payments securely. Examples include PayPal and Stripe.
o Security Protocols: Ensures that payment information is encrypted
and protected during transactions.

Logistics and Fulfillment:

o Inventory Management: Tracks stock levels and manages reordering

to ensure product availability.
o Shipping Integration: Coordinates with delivery services to handle
shipping and tracking of orders.

Customer Support:

o Help Desks: Provides assistance to customers, addressing issues and

answering queries.
o Feedback Systems: Collects and manages customer reviews and
complaints to improve service quality.

Example: A platform like Magento integrates these components to offer a

comprehensive e-commerce solution, enabling businesses to manage their online
stores efficiently.
8. Architectural Framework of Electronic Commerce

The Architectural Framework of Electronic Commerce describes the structure and

components required for an e-commerce system:

Presentation Layer:

o User Interface: The front-end of the e-commerce application where

users interact with the system. This includes web pages, mobile apps,
and user dashboards.
o Design and Usability: Ensures a user-friendly interface that is
accessible and engaging.

Application Layer:

o Business Logic: Implements the rules and processes of the e-

commerce system, such as order processing, pricing calculations, and
promotions.
o Application Servers: Hosts the business logic and handles requests
from the client-side.

Data Layer:

o Database Management Systems (DBMS): Stores and manages all

data related to products, customers, orders, and transactions. Examples
include MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB.
o Data Access: Provides secure and efficient access to the stored data.

Integration Layer:

o APIs and Middleware: Facilitates communication between different

systems and services, such as integrating with payment gateways,
shipping providers, and third-party applications.
o Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA): Uses web services and APIs
to enable interaction between disparate systems.

Security Layer:

o Authentication and Authorization: Ensures that only authorized

users can access specific data and perform actions.
o Encryption: Protects sensitive information during transmission and
storage.

Example: The architectural framework of Amazon’s e-commerce platform includes a

user-friendly presentation layer, robust application and data layers for processing
transactions, integration with various services, and strong security measures.
9. Web-Based Architecture of E-Commerce

Web-Based Architecture for e-commerce involves the components and structure

necessary to deliver online services:

Client-Side (Frontend):

o Web Browsers: Platforms through which users access the e-commerce

site, such as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.
o Responsive Design: Ensures that the website adapts to different screen
sizes and devices, providing a consistent user experience.

Server-Side (Backend):

o Web Server: Hosts the website and serves web pages to users.
Common web servers include Apache and Nginx.
o Application Server: Handles business logic and processes user
requests. Examples include Tomcat and Node.js.

Database Server:

o Database: Stores data related to products, customers, and transactions.

Databases like MySQL and PostgreSQL are commonly used.
o Data Management: Ensures efficient retrieval and management of
data.

Network Infrastructure:

o Content Delivery Network (CDN): Distributes content across

multiple servers to improve load times and performance. Examples
include Cloudflare and Akamai.
o Load Balancers: Distribute incoming traffic across multiple servers to
ensure reliability and prevent overload.

Security Infrastructure:

o SSL/TLS Encryption: Encrypts data transmitted between users and

the server to protect sensitive information.
o Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems: Protect against
unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Example: An e-commerce site like Shopify uses a web-based architecture with a

combination of frontend and backend technologies, database management, CDN for
performance, and robust security measures to provide a seamless and secure shopping
experience.

1. Overview of Developments in Information Technology

Information Technology (IT) encompasses the use of computers, networks, and
other technologies to process and manage information. The development of IT has
seen several transformative phases:

Early Developments (1950s-1970s):

• Mainframe Computers: Early computers like the IBM 7094 were large,
expensive, and used primarily by large corporations and governments for data
processing and scientific calculations.
• Transistors and Integrated Circuits: The invention of transistors (1947) and
integrated circuits (1958) revolutionized computing by making computers
smaller, faster, and more reliable.

Personal Computers and Networking (1980s-1990s):

• Personal Computers (PCs): The introduction of PCs, such as the IBM PC

and Apple Macintosh, made computing accessible to individuals and small
businesses. PCs were equipped with graphical user interfaces (GUIs), which
made them user-friendly.
• Networking Technologies: The development of Ethernet (1973) and the
TCP/IP protocol (1983) enabled the creation of local area networks (LANs)
and the broader internet, facilitating data exchange and connectivity.

Internet and World Wide Web (1990s-2000s):

• World Wide Web: Invented by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989, the web introduced
hypertext and web browsers, allowing users to navigate interconnected
documents. The first browser, Mosaic, was released in 1993, popularizing the
web.
• E-Commerce and Online Services: The rise of e-commerce platforms like
Amazon (founded in 1994) transformed retail, allowing transactions and
services to be offered online.

Mobile and Cloud Computing (2000s-Present):

• Mobile Computing: The launch of smartphones (e.g., iPhone in 2007) and

tablets brought portable computing power to users, facilitating mobile internet
access and app-based services.
• Cloud Computing: Services like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and
Microsoft Azure provide scalable computing resources over the internet,
allowing businesses to run applications and store data without maintaining
physical infrastructure.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (Present-Future):

• AI and ML: These technologies enable systems to learn from data and
improve over time. Applications range from recommendation systems (like
those used by Netflix) to autonomous vehicles.
Example: The transition from mainframe computers to cloud computing illustrates
the rapid advancement in IT. For instance, whereas early data processing was
confined to expensive mainframes, today’s cloud services offer scalable solutions
accessible via the internet.

2. Defining E-Commerce: The Scope of E-Commerce

E-Commerce (Electronic Commerce) refers to conducting business transactions

over the internet. It encompasses various aspects:

Defining E-Commerce:

• Definition: E-commerce involves buying and selling goods and services, as

well as the transfer of funds and data, over electronic networks like the
internet.
• Types: E-commerce can be categorized into several types based on the
participants involved.

Scope of E-Commerce:

Business-to-Consumer (B2C):

o Definition: Transactions between businesses and individual

consumers.

Examples: Online retail stores like Amazon or clothing brands selling dir

Business-to-Business (B2B):

o Definition: Transactions between businesses, often involving

wholesale and supply chain activities.
o Examples: Manufacturers purchasing raw materials from suppliers, or
software providers selling enterprise solutions to other businesses.

Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C):

o Definition: Transactions between individual consumers, typically

facilitated by a third-party platform.
o Examples: Platforms like eBay and Craigslist where individuals sell
items to other individuals.

Consumer-to-Business (C2B):

o Definition: Transactions where individual consumers offer products or

services to businesses.
o Examples: Freelancers providing services through platforms like
Upwork, or individuals selling stock photos to companies
 Mobile Commerce (M-Commerce):

o Definition: Conducting commercial transactions through mobile

devices.
o Examples: Mobile banking apps, shopping apps like Amazon’s mobile
app, and mobile payment systems like Apple Pay.

Example: The scope of e-commerce is well illustrated by Amazon’s operations,

which span B2C through its retail platform, B2B through its Amazon Business
service, and C2C through its marketplace for third-party sellers.

3. Electronic Market

Electronic Markets are online platforms where buyers and sellers engage in
transactions. These markets can vary in form and function:

Types of Electronic Markets:

Marketplaces:

o Definition: Platforms that allow multiple sellers to list and sell their
products or services.
o Examples: Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. These platforms facilitate a wide
range of goods and services from various sellers.

Auction Sites:

o Definition: Platforms where items are sold to the highest bidder.

o Examples: eBay is a prominent example where users can bid on items
until the auction closes.

Vertical Markets:

o Definition: Specialized platforms focused on specific industries or

product categories.
o Examples: Alibaba, which focuses on wholesale trade and
manufacturing, or HealthCare.com for health-related products and
services.

Features:

• Search and Discovery: Tools and filters that help users find products or
services quickly.
• Transaction Management: Systems that handle order processing, payment,
and delivery.
• User Reviews and Ratings: Mechanisms for providing feedback on sellers
and products, helping to build trust.
Example: Amazon’s marketplace allows various sellers to list their products
alongside Amazon’s own inventory, providing a diverse range of products and
enabling competition.

4. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the electronic exchange of standardized

business documents between organizations. EDI aims to streamline and automate
business processes.

Components of EDI:

Standard Formats:

o Definition: EDI uses standardized document formats to ensure

consistency and compatibility between different systems.
o Examples: EDIFACT (Electronic Data Interchange for
Administration, Commerce, and Transport) and ANSI X12 are widely
used EDI standards.

EDI Transmissions:

o Definition: Methods for transmitting EDI documents securely between

organizations.
o Examples: Value-Added Networks (VANs) act as intermediaries to
facilitate EDI communication, while direct connections between
businesses also exist.

Benefits:

• Speed: Accelerates the exchange of documents and reduces processing time.

• Accuracy: Minimizes errors associated with manual data entry.
• Cost Reduction: Reduces costs related to paper, postage, and manual
handling.

Example: A retailer might use EDI to receive purchase orders and send invoices
electronically to a supplier, significantly speeding up the procurement process and
reducing errors compared to traditional methods.

5. Internet Commerce

Internet Commerce, also known as e-commerce, refers specifically to transactions

conducted over the internet. It involves several components and processes:

Key Components:
 Websites and Online Stores:

o Definition: Platforms where transactions occur, typically featuring

product listings, shopping carts, and checkout processes.
o Examples: Shopify and WooCommerce allow businesses to set up
online stores and manage sales.

Payment Gateways:

o Definition: Systems that facilitate online payment transactions

between buyers and sellers.
o Examples: PayPal, Stripe, and Square provide secure payment
processing for online purchases.

Customer Interaction:

o Definition: Tools and techniques used to engage with customers,

handle inquiries, and provide support.
o Examples: Live chat support, email marketing campaigns, and
customer feedback systems.

Example: An e-commerce website like Shopify enables businesses to create online

stores, process payments through integrated gateways, and use customer support tools
to interact with buyers.

6. Benefits and Limitations of E-Commerce

Benefits:

Global Reach:

o Definition: E-commerce allows businesses to reach customers

worldwide without geographic limitations.
o Example: A small boutique can sell its products internationally
through an online store, accessing markets beyond its local area.

Convenience:

1.

o Definition: E-commerce provides the ability to shop and conduct

transactions 24/7 from any location.
o Example: Consumers can purchase items online at any time, without
needing to visit physical stores.

Cost Efficiency:
 o Definition: Lower operational costs compared to maintaining physical
stores, including savings on rent, utilities, and staffing.
o Example: An online-only retailer avoids the expenses associated with
running a brick-and-mortar store.

Personalization:

o Definition: E-commerce platforms can offer personalized

recommendations based on user behavior and preferences.
o Example: Amazon’s recommendation engine suggests products based
on a user’s browsing history and previous purchases.

Limitations:

Security Risks:

o Definition: Online transactions are susceptible to fraud, data breaches,

and cyberattacks.
o Example: Data breaches at major e-commerce sites can expose
customer information, leading to potential identity theft

Technical Issues:

o Definition: Reliance on technology means that website downtime or

technical problems can disrupt business operations.
o Example: An e-commerce site experiencing server outages may
prevent customers from making purchases, affecting sales.

Privacy Concerns:

o Definition: Handling of personal and financial information raises

privacy issues, requiring robust data protection measures.
o Example: Customers are concerned about how their data is collected,
stored, and used by online businesses.

Lack of Physical Inspection:

o Definition: Customers cannot physically examine products before

purchasing, which may lead to dissatisfaction with the received items.
o Example: Online shoppers may face challenges when buying clothing
without trying it on, leading to returns and exchanges.

Example: While Amazon offers convenience and a global reach, it must address
security concerns and ensure privacy protections to maintain customer trust.
7. Generic Framework for E-Commerce

A generic framework for e-commerce outlines the essential components and

processes involved in conducting online business:

Frontend:

o User Interface: The website or application where users interact,

including product catalogs, search functions, and checkout pages.
o Shopping Cart: A system for managing items selected for purchase,
allowing users to review and modify their orders before checkout.

Backend:

o Database Management: Stores information about products, users,

orders, and transactions. Databases like MySQL or MongoDB are
commonly used.
o Order Processing: Manages the steps involved in fulfilling orders,
including payment verification, inventory updates, and shipping
arrangements.

Payment Processing:

o Payment Gateways: Interfaces with financial institutions to process

payments securely. Examples include PayPal and Stripe.
o Security Protocols: Ensures that payment information is encrypted
and protected during transactions.

Logistics and Fulfillment:

o Inventory Management: Tracks stock levels and manages reordering

to ensure product availability.
o Shipping Integration: Coordinates with delivery services to handle
shipping and tracking of orders.

Customer Support:

o Help Desks: Provides assistance to customers, addressing issues and

answering queries.
o Feedback Systems: Collects and manages customer reviews and
complaints to improve service quality.

Example: A platform like Magento integrates these components to offer a

comprehensive e-commerce solution, enabling businesses to manage their online
stores efficiently.

8. Architectural Framework of Electronic Commerce

The Architectural Framework of Electronic Commerce describes the structure and
components required for an e-commerce system:

Presentation Layer:

o User Interface: The front-end of the e-commerce application where

users interact with the system. This includes web pages, mobile apps,
and user dashboards.
o Design and Usability: Ensures a user-friendly interface that is
accessible and engaging.

Application Layer:

o Business Logic: Implements the rules and processes of the e-

commerce system, such as order processing, pricing calculations, and
promotions.
o Application Servers: Hosts the business logic and handles requests
from the client-side.

Data Layer:

o Database Management Systems (DBMS): Stores and manages all

data related to products, customers, orders, and transactions. Examples
include MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB.
o Data Access: Provides secure and efficient access to the stored data.

Integration Layer:

o APIs and Middleware: Facilitates communication between different

systems and services, such as integrating with payment gateways,
shipping providers, and third-party applications.
o Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA): Uses web services and APIs
to enable interaction between disparate systems.

Security Layer:

o Authentication and Authorization: Ensures that only authorized

users can access specific data and perform actions.
o Encryption: Protects sensitive information during transmission and
storage.

Example: The architectural framework of Amazon’s e-commerce platform includes a

user-friendly presentation layer, robust application and data layers for processing
transactions, integration with various services, and strong security measures.

9. Web-Based Architecture of E-Commerce

Web-Based Architecture for e-commerce involves the components and structure
necessary to deliver online services:

Client-Side (Frontend):

o Web Browsers: Platforms through which users access the e-commerce

site, such as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.
o Responsive Design: Ensures that the website adapts to different screen
sizes and devices, providing a consistent user experience.

Server-Side (Backend):

o Web Server: Hosts the website and serves web pages to users.
Common web servers include Apache and Nginx.
o Application Server: Handles business logic and processes user
requests. Examples include Tomcat and Node.js.

Database Server:

o Database: Stores data related to products, customers, and transactions.

Databases like MySQL and PostgreSQL are commonly used.
o Data Management: Ensures efficient retrieval and management of
data.

Network Infrastructure:

o Content Delivery Network (CDN): Distributes content across

multiple servers to improve load times and performance. Examples
include Cloudflare and Akamai.
o Load Balancers: Distribute incoming traffic across multiple servers to
ensure reliability and prevent overload

Security Infrastructure:

o SSL/TLS Encryption: Encrypts data transmitted between users and

the server to protect sensitive information.
o Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems: Protect against
unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Example: An e-commerce site like Shopify uses a web-based architecture with a

combination of frontend and backend technologies, database management, CDN for
performance, and robust security measures to provide a seamless and secure shopping
experience.