What is a server?

A server is a computer designed to process requests and deliver data to another computer over the internet or a local network. While some are dedicated servers where the server operates one function only, some implementations might use one server for multiple purposes.  A large, general-purpose network supporting a medium-sized company will likely deploy several different types of servers.

A server is a powerful piece of computer software or hardware designed to perform heavy-duty back-end tasks. It provides functionality to other computers, called clients, connecting them through local or wide area network (LAN or WAN). This client-server architecture allows 'single server to multiple clients' and 'single client to multiple servers' connections. The client and server processes can either run on the same device or connect on different devices over a network.

A server does not mandate any hardware requirements; even a regular desktop can be configured as a server by adding its server-specific software. However, large organizations mostly use specially designed rack-mountable hardware for server functionality. A single unit of this feature-rich hardware takes minimal space, allowing multiple rack-mountable servers in a single rack.

Although a server can run on any computer, it is crucial to ensure that the hardware can support server demands. Another essential prerequisite of a client-server architecture is a fast network connection that provides an untroubled data flow between the server and the clients.

Types of Servers

Application Server

An application server hosts web applications and allows network users to access these apps with or without installation.

Catalog Server

A catalog server structures information in the form of an index or table of content and makes it available to an extensively distributed network.

Communication Server

A communication server regulates communication between more than one user or device, called endpoints. The network's security parameters customize the endpoints' details that it shares with the looped parties in the communication. These details may include a presence detection service, a directory of communication endpoints, etc.

Database Server

A database server organizes data and shares it over a network.

File Server

A file server shares files, folders, and/or their storage space over a network.

Mail Server

A mail server regulates email communication over a network.

Media Server

A media server transmits digital audio or digital video over a network so that the portions received can be listened to or watched independently, without the need to download the entire file before using it.

Web Server

A web server hosts web pages. It is the primary requirement of any website to go live. One website can have more than one web server, and one web server can host more than one website.

The categorization of servers is not limited to the types mentioned above. They are more, and each has its specific role, like managing to print, playing and recording sound, enabling gaming, etc. Choose your requirement-specific servers and connect with DirectDeals for expert’s bits of advice. 

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