A server takes care of handling requests made by a group of connected devices or networks, called clients. The server could be a web server that hosts websites or an actual physical device, like a desktop CPU. The network could be a closed connection between internal clients or a wide area network.
In the modern age, servers are in every facet of our life. Whenever you build a personal blog or a corporate website, choosing a reliable web server is half of success. What should you know when choosing a web server for your project? Let’s find it out in this blog post.
Role of a Server
Let’s speak about a web server as a waiter in a restaurant. When you order a cup of coffee, the waiter processes the order by giving it to the bar and the bartender then sends the cup of coffee to the client via the waiter. The waiter has access to both parties. He or she should manage the information flow between the client and the cashier. A web server works similarly. They can be set up to perform a single function or host one or more websites and send emails simultaneously.
Types of Servers
There are many different types of servers. They include:
- Application servers are intended to run and host any type of app from a central location, which is typical for most business apps.
- A blade server is a trimmed-down version of a regular server designed to save space by multiple servers sharing one chassis that supplies the power.
- The virtual server is a physical server for processing and storing information, using virtualization software.
- A cloud server is typically comprised of multiple servers designed to host information, not on local hardware.
- Database server stores manages and retrieves information from databases using Microsoft SQL server and similar software.
- A dedicated server is intended for the exclusive use of one website or organization, without the option of sharing
- A web server is a physical server that runs software to store, process, and deliver web pages to users.
2 Ways for Clients to Connect with Servers
The two most common ways for clients to connect with servers include local and online connections. Local connections take place through LAN (local area networks) and can be only accessed onsite. Online connections go through the internet and require a registered domain name.
Do You Need to Buy a Server?
The answer depends on your data access and processing needs. If you are a sole practitioner (like a dentist), it’s probably enough for you to run one local. However, if you have an application or a project that many people will access, then you probably need some type of server for your project. Whenever you face any sort of challenges with the data stored on your web server, you need to rely on the help delivered by server data restoration professionals who will help you restore all your valuable pieces of data in no time.
