What is "fat client"

n. (context computing English) A complex client that does not rely on the server to do most of its processing.

A fat client (also called heavy, rich or thick client) is a computer ( client) in client–server architecture or networks that typically provides rich functionality independent of the central server. Originally known as just a "client" or "thick client" the name is contrasted to thin client, which describes a computer heavily dependent on a server's applications.

A fat client still requires at least periodic connection to a network or central server, but is often characterised by the ability to perform many functions without that connection. In contrast, a thin client generally does as little processing as possible and relies on accessing the server each time input data needs to be processed or validated.