iLabs' design separates online labs into three distinct modules connected by a Web service architecture.

• The Lab Server is operated by the lab's owner and deals with the actual operation of the lab hardware.
• The Lab Client runs on the end user's computer, and provides the interface to the operation of the lab.
• *The Service Broker* mediates exchanges between the Lab Client and the Lab Server and provides storage and administrative services that are generic and can be shared by multiple labs within a single university.