Introduction to Server
A server is a specialized computer or software system designed to provide services, data, or resources to other computers, known as clients, over a network. This architecture is fundamental to modern computing and underpins many systems, including websites, email, and cloud storage platforms.
What is Server?
A server is a dedicated computer or device that provides functionality on behalf of other devices or clients.
History of Server
Top 8 Server Definitions
1. File Server
2. Print Server
3. Web Server
4. Database Server
5. Proxy Server
6. Dedicated Server
7. Application Server
8. Cloud Server
File Server: A computer and storage device dedicated to storing files. Any user on
the network can store files on the server.
Print Server: A computer
that manages one or more printers and a network server is a computer that
manages network traffic.
Web Server: Web servers
are computers that deliver (or serve up) web pages. Every web server has an IP
address and possibly a domain name. There are many web server software
applications, including public domain software and commercial packages.
Database Server: A computer that processes database queries.
Proxy Server: Is a server that sits between a client application, such as
a web browser, and a real server. Proxy servers have two main purposes: to
improve performance and to filter requests.
Dedicated Server: Is a single computer in a network reserved for serving the
needs of the network. For example, some networks require that ne computer be
set aside to manage communications between all the other computers.
Application Server: An application
server is a program that handles all application operations between users and
an organization’s back-end business applications or databases. This type of
server is typically used for complex transaction-based applications.
Cloud Server: Services made available to customers on demand via the internet. Rather than being provided by a single server or virtual server, cloud server hosting services are provided by multiple connected servers that comprise a cloud.
How a Server Operates
1. Client Request: A client, such as a web browser or
email application, sends a request to the server. This request can be for
accessing a webpage, retrieving an email, or downloading a file.
2. Processing the Request: The server receives the
request and processes it. This may involve querying a database, running a
script, or retrieving a file from its storage.
3. Sending the Response: Once the server processes the
request, it sends the appropriate response back to the client. For example, it
might send back a webpage, an email message, or a file.
4. Client Receives Data: The client receives the data and presents it to the user in a readable format, such as displaying a webpage in a browser or opening a file in an application.
Server Hardware Components
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU).
2. Main Memory (RAM).
3. Internal Storage.
4. Network Interface Controller (NIC).
5. Peripherals.
6. Redundancy Components
7. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
8. Motherboard
Server Security
Server security is the combination of various techniques to
protect the data, services, and hardware of the server, and to reduce the risk
of attacks and damage.
1. Firewall
2. Encryption
3. Authentication
4. Physical Security
5. Updates
Firewall: They act as a door gateway between your server and threats
from outside / inside.
Encryption: Encryption helps in ensuring that data can only be read by
people/systems that are authorized, if an attack happens or data is stolen.
Authentication: This means who can access the server, how they access it,
and what they can do once they are in.
Physical Security: Often it is ignored until a physical
breach or incident occurs.
Updates: Unpatched software is an open door that hackers often exploit, taking advantage of insecurities and bugs.
Advantage of Server
1. Reducing Security Risks and Cyber Attacks.
2. Compliance with Laws and Regulations.
3. Enhancing Customer and Stakeholder Confidence.
4. New Business Opportunities and Market Competitiveness.
5. Operational Efficiency and Process Improvement.
Disadvantage of Server
1. High Initial and Ongoing Costs
2. Complex Management and Maintenance
3. Scalability Challenges
4. Security Risks
5. Resource Intensive
Server Operating Systems
Server Operating Systems are robust and stable they are
designed to run nonstop and are able 1000s of concurrent connections.
1. Microsoft Windows.
2. Linux
3. FreeBSD
4. Apple Mac OS.
Conclusion
Servers play a crucial role in modern IT infrastructure,
serving as the backbone for data management, application hosting, and
communication within organizations. As technology advances, servers have become
more powerful, flexible, and scalable, adapting to the diverse needs of various
industries.
These systems provide essential services such as data
storage, application hosting, and communication management, making them
indispensable components of enterprise IT frameworks. Their ability to centralize
data and services enhances efficiency, security, and accessibility across
organizational networks.
In the context of cloud computing, servers enable the virtualization of resources, allowing businesses to scale operations dynamically and manage workloads effectively. This flexibility supports the growing demands of modern enterprises and facilitates innovation in service delivery.
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