The online application communicates directly with the main servers over the Restricted LAN Interconnect (RLI) (usually using the DII network, although JPA is also accessible via TAFMIS and other legacy systems) on a client-server basis.
However, if communications are not stable enough for this configuration, the system can be used "in theatre" with a limited connection in offline mode with a local server recording all database updates/deletes/inserts.
[1] The Royal Navy followed in November 2006 with the British Army, most difficult of the three Services in terms of complexity of administration, completing the rollout in June 2007.
Teething problems upon rollout include users not being able to log onto the system due to high server demands, and others not receiving the correct pay or allowances.
[5] Later in 2008, the then Chief of the Defence Staff General David Richards raised his concerns over the "prevalence of fraudulent behaviour" on the system.