What Is The Purpose Of Having A Server
Server (computing) – Wikipedia
First WWW server located at CERN with its original sticker that says: “This machine is a server. DO NOT POWER IT DOWN!! ”
In computing, a server is a piece of computer hardware or software (computer program) that provides functionality for other programs or devices, called “clients”. This architecture is called the client–server model. Servers can provide various functionalities, often called “services”, such as sharing data or resources among multiple clients, or performing computation for a client. A single server can serve multiple clients, and a single client can use multiple servers. A client process may run on the same device or may connect over a network to a server on a different device. [1] Typical servers are database servers, file servers, mail servers, print servers, web servers, game servers, and application servers. [2]
Client–server systems are today most frequently implemented by (and often identified with) the request–response model: a client sends a request to the server, which performs some action and sends a response back to the client, typically with a result or acknowledgment. Designating a computer as “server-class hardware” implies that it is specialized for running servers on it. This often implies that it is more powerful and reliable than standard personal computers, but alternatively, large computing clusters may be composed of many relatively simple, replaceable server components.
History[edit]
The use of the word server in computing comes from queueing theory, [3] where it dates to the mid 20th century, being notably used in Kendall (1953) (along with “service”), the paper that introduced Kendall’s notation. In earlier papers, such as the Erlang (1909), more concrete terms such as “[telephone] operators” are used.
In computing, “server” dates at least to RFC 5 (1969), [4] one of the earliest documents describing ARPANET (the predecessor of Internet), and is contrasted with “user”, distinguishing two types of host: “server-host” and “user-host”. The use of “serving” also dates to early documents, such as RFC 4, [5] contrasting “serving-host” with “using-host”.
The Jargon File defines “server” in the common sense of a process performing service for requests, usually remote, with the 1981 (1. 1. 0) version reading:
SERVER n. A kind of DAEMON which performs a service for the requester, which often runs on a computer other than the one on which the server runs.
Operation[edit]
A network based on the client–server model where multiple individual clients request services and resources from centralized servers
Strictly speaking, the term server refers to a computer program or process (running program). Through metonymy, it refers to a device used for (or a device dedicated to) running one or several server programs. On a network, such a device is called a host. In addition to server, the words serve and service (as verb and as noun respectively) are frequently used, though servicer and servant are not. [a] The word service (noun) may refer to either the abstract form of functionality, e. g. Web service. Alternatively, it may refer to a computer program that turns a computer into a server, e. Windows service. Originally used as “servers serve users” (and “users use servers”), in the sense of “obey”, today one often says that “servers serve data”, in the same sense as “give”. For instance, web servers “serve [up] web pages to users” or “service their requests”.
The server is part of the client–server model; in this model, a server serves data for clients. The nature of communication between a client and server is request and response. This is in contrast with peer-to-peer model in which the relationship is on-demand reciprocation. In principle, any computerized process that can be used or called by another process (particularly remotely, particularly to share a resource) is a server, and the calling process or processes is a client. Thus any general-purpose computer connected to a network can host servers. For example, if files on a device are shared by some process, that process is a file server. Similarly, web server software can run on any capable computer, and so a laptop or a personal computer can host a web server.
While request–response is the most common client-server design, there are others, such as the publish–subscribe pattern. In the publish-subscribe pattern, clients register with a pub-sub server, subscribing to specified types of messages; this initial registration may be done by request-response. Thereafter, the pub-sub server forwards matching messages to the clients without any further requests: the server pushes messages to the client, rather than the client pulling messages from the server as in request-response. [6]
Purpose[edit]
The role of a server is to share data as well as to share resources and distribute work. A server computer can serve its own computer programs as well; depending on the scenario, this could be part of a quid pro quo transaction, or simply a technical possibility. The following table shows several scenarios in which a server is used.
Server type
Purpose
Clients
Application server
Hosts web apps (computer programs that run inside a web browser) allowing users in the network to run and use them, without having to install a copy on their own computers. Unlike what the name might imply, these servers do not need to be part of the World Wide Web; any local network would do.
Computers with a web browser
Catalog server
Maintains an index or table of contents of information that can be found across a large distributed network, such as computers, users, files shared on file servers, and web apps. Directory servers and name servers are examples of catalog servers.
Any computer program that needs to find something on the network, such a Domain member attempting to log in, an email client looking for an email address, or a user looking for a file
Communications server
Maintains an environment needed for one communication endpoint (user or devices) to find other endpoints and communicate with them. It may or may not include a directory of communication endpoints and a presence detection service, depending on the openness and security parameters of the network
Communication endpoints (users or devices)
Computing server
Shares vast amounts of computing resources, especially CPU and random-access memory, over a network.
Any computer program that needs more CPU power and RAM than a personal computer can probably afford. The client must be a networked computer; otherwise, there would be no client-server model.
Database server
Maintains and shares any form of database (organized collections of data with predefined properties that may be displayed in a table) over a network.
Spreadsheets, accounting software, asset management software or virtually any computer program that consumes well-organized data, especially in large volumes
Fax server
Shares one or more fax machines over a network, thus eliminating the hassle of physical access
Any fax sender or recipient
File server
Shares files and folders, storage space to hold files and folders, or both, over a network
Networked computers are the intended clients, even though local programs can be clients
Game server
Enables several computers or gaming devices to play multiplayer video games
Personal computers or gaming consoles
Mail server
Makes email communication possible in the same way that a post office makes snail mail communication possible
Senders and recipients of email
Media server
Shares digital video or digital audio over a network through media streaming (transmitting content in a way that portions received can be watched or listened to as they arrive, as opposed to downloading an entire file and then using it)
User-attended personal computers equipped with a monitor and a speaker
Print server
Shares one or more printers over a network, thus eliminating the hassle of physical access
Computers in need of printing something
Sound server
Enables computer programs to play and record sound, individually or cooperatively
Computer programs of the same computer and network clients.
Proxy server
Acts as an intermediary between a client and a server, accepting incoming traffic from the client and sending it to the server. Reasons for doing so include content control and filtering, improving traffic performance, preventing unauthorized network access or simply routing the traffic over a large and complex network.
Any networked computer
Virtual server
Shares hardware and software resources with other virtual servers. It exists only as defined within specialized software called hypervisor. The hypervisor presents virtual hardware to the server as if it were real physical hardware. [7] Server virtualization allows for a more efficient infrastructure. [8]
Web server
Hosts web pages. A web server is what makes the World Wide Web possible. Each website has one or more web servers. Also, each server can host multiple websites.
Almost the entire structure of the Internet is based upon a client–server model. High-level root nameservers, DNS, and routers direct the traffic on the internet. There are millions of servers connected to the Internet, running continuously throughout the world[9] and virtually every action taken by an ordinary Internet user requires one or more interactions with one or more servers. There are exceptions that do not use dedicated servers; for example, peer-to-peer file sharing and some implementations of telephony (e. pre-Microsoft Skype).
Hardware[edit]
A rack-mountable server with the top cover removed to reveal internal components
Hardware requirement for servers vary widely, depending on the server’s purpose and its software. Servers are more often than not, more powerful and expensive than the clients that connect to them.
Since servers are usually accessed over a network, many run unattended without a computer monitor or input device, audio hardware and USB interfaces. Many servers do not have a graphical user interface (GUI). They are configured and managed remotely. Remote management can be conducted via various methods including Microsoft Management Console (MMC), PowerShell, SSH and browser-based out-of-band management systems such as Dell’s iDRAC or HP’s iLo.
Large servers[edit]
Large traditional single servers would need to be run for long periods without interruption. Availability would have to be very high, making hardware reliability and durability extremely important. Mission-critical enterprise servers would be very fault tolerant and use specialized hardware with low failure rates in order to maximize uptime. Uninterruptible power supplies might be incorporated to guard against power failure. Servers typically include hardware redundancy such as dual power supplies, RAID disk systems, and ECC memory, [10] along with extensive pre-boot memory testing and verification. Critical components might be hot swappable, allowing technicians to replace them on the running server without shutting it down, and to guard against overheating, servers might have more powerful fans or use water cooling. They will often be able to be configured, powered up and down, or rebooted remotely, using out-of-band management, typically based on IPMI. Server casings are usually flat and wide, and designed to be rack-mounted, either on 19-inch racks or on Open Racks.
These types of servers are often housed in dedicated data centers. These will normally have very stable power and Internet and increased security. Noise is also less of a concern, but power consumption and heat output can be a serious issue. Server rooms are equipped with air conditioning devices.
Clusters[edit]
A server farm or server cluster is a collection of computer servers maintained by an organization to supply server functionality far beyond the capability of a single device. Modern data centers are now often built of very large clusters of much simpler servers, [11] and there is a collaborative effort, Open Compute Project around this concept.
Appliances[edit]
A class of small specialist servers called network appliances are generally at the low end of the scale, often being smaller than common desktop computers.
Mobile[edit]
A mobile server has a portable form factor, e. a laptop. [12] In contrast to large data centers or rack servers, the mobile server is designed for on-the-road or ad hoc deployment into emergency, disaster or temporary environments where traditional servers are not feasible due to their power requirements, size, and deployment time. [13] The main beneficiaries of so-called “server on the go” technology include network managers, software or database developers, training centers, military personnel, law enforcement, forensics, emergency relief groups, and service organizations. [14] To facilitate portability, features such as the keyboard, display, battery (uninterruptible power supply, to provide power redundancy in case of failure), and mouse are all integrated into the chassis.
Operating systems[edit]
Sun’s Cobalt Qube 3; a computer server appliance (2002); running Cobalt Linux (a customized version of Red Hat Linux, using the 2. 2 Linux kernel), complete with the Apache web server.
On the Internet the dominant operating systems among servers are UNIX-like open-source distributions, such as those based on Linux and FreeBSD, [15] with Windows Server also having a significant share. Proprietary operating systems such as z/OS and macOS Server are also deployed, but in much smaller numbers.
Specialist server-oriented operating systems have traditionally had features such as:
GUI not available or optional
Ability to reconfigure and update both hardware and software to some extent without restart
Advanced backup facilities to permit regular and frequent online backups of critical data,
Transparent data transfer between different volumes or devices
Flexible and advanced networking capabilities
Automation capabilities such as daemons in UNIX and services in Windows
Tight system security, with advanced user, resource, data, and memory protection.
Advanced detection and alerting on conditions such as overheating, processor and disk failure. [16]
In practice, today many desktop and server operating systems share similar code bases, differing mostly in configuration.
Energy consumption[edit]
In 2010, data centers (servers, cooling, and other electrical infrastructure) were responsible for 1. 1-1. 5% of electrical energy consumption worldwide and 1. 7-2. 2% in the United States. [17] One estimate is that total energy consumption for information and communications technology saves more than 5 times its carbon footprint[18] in the rest of the economy by increasing efficiency.
Global energy consumption is increasing due to the increasing demand of data and bandwidth. Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) states that data centers used 91 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) electrical energy in 2013 which accounts to 3% of global electricity usage.
Environmental groups have placed focus on the carbon emissions of data centers as it accounts to 200 million metric tons of carbon dioxide in a year.
Various hosting providers have introduced eco-friendly servers that reduced carbon emissions by 80% through off-shelf equipment and energy management.
See also[edit]
Peer-to-peer
Notes[edit]
^ A CORBA servant is a server-side object to which method calls from remote method invocation are forwarded, but this is an uncommon usage.
References[edit]
^ Windows Server Administration Fundamentals. Microsoft Official Academic Course. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030: John Wiley & Sons. 2011. pp. 2–3. ISBN 978-0-470-90182-3. CS1 maint: location (link)
^ Comer, Douglas E. ; Stevens, David L (1993). Vol III: Client-Server Programming and Applications. Internetworking with TCP/IP. Department of Computer Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 479: Prentice Hall. pp. 11d. ISBN 978-0-13-474222-9. CS1 maint: location (link)
^ Richard A. Henle, Boris W. Kuvshinoff, C. M. Kuvshinoff (1992). Desktop computers: in perspective. Oxford University Press. p. 417. ISBN 9780195070316. Server is a fairly recent computer networking term derived from queuing theory. CS1 maint: uses authors parameter (link)
^ Rulifson, Jeff (June 1969). DEL. IETF. doi:10. 17487/RFC0005. RFC 5. Retrieved 30 November 2013.
^ Shapiro, Elmer B. (March 1969). Network Timetable. 17487/RFC0004. RFC 4. Retrieved 30 November 2013.
^ Using the HTTP Publish-Subscribe Server, Oracle
^ IT Explained. “Server – Definition and Details”.
^ IT Explained. “DNS Server Not Responding”.
^ “Web Servers”. IT Business Edge. Retrieved July 31, 2013.
^ Li, Huang, Shen, Chu (2010). “”A Realistic Evaluation of Memory Hardware Errors and Software System Susceptibility”. Usenix Annual Tech Conference 2010″ (PDF). Retrieved 2017-01-30. CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
^ “Google uncloaks once-secret server”. CNET. CBS Interactive. Retrieved 2017-01-30.
^ “Mobile Server, Power to go, EUROCOM Panther 5SE”. Archived from the original on 2013-03-17.
^ “Mobile Server Notebook”.
^ “Server-caliber Computer Doubles as a Mobile Workstation”.
^ “Usage statistics and market share of Linux for websites”. Retrieved 18 Jan 2013.
^ “Server Oriented Operating System”. Retrieved 2010-05-25.
^ Markoff, John (31 Jul 2011). “Data Centers Using Less Power Than Forecast, Report Says”. NY Times. Retrieved 18 Jan 2013.
^ “SMART 2020: Enabling the low carbon economy in the information age” (PDF). The Climate Group. 6 Oct 2008. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 November 2010. Retrieved 18 Jan 2013.
Further reading[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Servers.
Erlang, Agner Krarup (1909). “The theory of probabilities and telephone conversations” (PDF). Nyt Tidsskrift for Matematik B. 20: 33–39. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2011-10-01.
Kendall, D. G. (1953). “Stochastic Processes Occurring in the Theory of Queues and their Analysis by the Method of the Imbedded Markov Chain”. The Annals of Mathematical Statistics. 24 (3): 338–354. 1214/aoms/1177728975. JSTOR 2236285.
What is the purpose of a computer server? – ProMAX Systems
by Matthew Mister, on Sep 25, 2019 3:01:03 PMA server is a computer connected to a network of other workstations called ‘clients’. Client computers request information from the server over the network.
Servers tend to have more storage, memory and processing power than a normal workstation.
How a server functions depends on the type of network it is on. Let’s dive into a few different types of networks and how servers interact with them.
Peer-to-peer
In a peer-to-peer network, each workstation plays the role of client and server. The server is the computer that is providing information or services to the other computer. The networks rely on each other to provide and share information and services. These are typically only used in small offices or homes.
Client / Server
In a client/server network there is one server that is only dedicated to provide services to the other client workstations. You can have multiple servers in these networks but they can not function as workstations. Client/server networks are the most commonly used.
Specialized Servers
There are a few common types of specialized servers. These include DNS, Web or Mail servers. These can hold databases of internet domains, supply access to websites or to email accounts.
Need a Dedicated Server? 6 Reasons You Do – HardBoiled
In a small business, the standard peer-to-peer networking model used in homes and very small offices eventually becomes insufficient. Eventually user demands—such as access to shared storage drives and printers—increases beyond what a router and endpoints can do. So, how do you know when you should introduce a server into your small office network? If any of the following scenarios sound familiar to you, it is time to think about deploying dedicated server hardware on premises.
But first, what is a dedicated server by definition?
When you introduce a dedicated server to a network setup, computers will communicate with the server instead of directly with each other. A dedicated server accepts and fulfills the requests of client computers on the network. What do we mean by requests? Requests can be access to a specific file or application, instructions to the printer, or access to the Internet. Servers “serve” client computers data that users request. A dedicated server has hardware designed precisely for this functionality, so performance tends to improve and becomes more reliable.
You Need a Dedicated Server When…
Managing e-mail for an increasing number of people. Many small businesses start out using free cloud-hosted e-mail services. For example, Microsoft Office 365 Business Premium works great for keeping a small workforce connected and in sync with their messaging. You can scale up the ranks in Office 365 to Enterprise licensing and always have adequate user inboxes. It works, but as your business grows you will want a dedicated Exchange server because it adds very useful manageability features.
Tasks like enabling a remote archive require an on-premises Exchange server is one example. After a business grows past a handful of seats, Microsoft recommends a hybrid set up where businesses use Office 365 in tandem with their own server. Should you migrate e-mail entirely in-house, an Exchange server eliminates your reliance on Web-based e-mail clients, and allows you to easily add in-boxes as your office expands. You can say goodbye to imposed e-mail file size and capacity limits and set your own.
Multiple users need to access the same data. Even small businesses need a centralized data storage location. Cloud hosting is wonderful as well, but after a certain point, cloud hosting costs can get unwieldy if you’re not mindful of pricing and SLAs. Cloud storage comes with its risks, and if Internet goes down locally it disrupts your access to cloud data.
When a business is very small, network attached storage devices suffice for file sharing. After growing past a dozen seats, a business is ready for a real domain controller–hardware that runs Windows Server software, Active Directory, and file and print services. Things that make managing user permissions a whole lot easier for your business. An entry-level domain controller doesn’t need enterprise specifications, but it should be able to scale up when you need it. You want to have DIMM slots to add server memory, and PCIe x 16 slot to add a RAID controller. You won’t get that with a NAS.
You Start to Use Applications that Require a Secure Database. A database stores information that can be accessed and updated by programs. For instance, if you have multiple POS stations or employee time clocks, the database houses the files containing information about inventory, order history, and punch-in times. Planning on implementing QuickBooks? A database stores your essential information securely, limiting access. Storing important data on an unsecure storage solution like a USB drive introduces risk into your systems.
Managing shared resources across the workspace. Some examples of shared resources include printers, optical disc drives, and applications. Servers can take over the print sharing duties of a router and also allow for the use of older unsupported printers. In a peer-to-peer network, one common problem with sharing a connected resource is drive mapping. Storage drives are assigned letters when connected, such as C: for the primary hard drive, D:, E:, and etc. for additional drives. While a drive connected to one computer can be shared with the network, it may have a different drive letter for the other computers. A server can assign a drive letter shared by every client computer.
Centralized control over network security management. In a peer-to-peer network configuration, installing security software on every machine offers excellent protection. In an environment of 10+ seats, going to every computer and running an installer takes up quite a bit of time. A single Windows Server security application makes network-wide security management much easier. From a single machine, you can run virus scans, manage spam filters, and install programs across the network.
One computer to do the job of multiple systems. A server can assume the functions of some devices, such as the router, the NAS device, backup storage drive, and firewall. With a server, you can virtualize the functions of multiple devices to run simultaneously on the same machine. Some server tasks barely tax the hardware so running multiple physical systems can be a waste of space and energy when a single server can suffice.
If you experience the scenarios above, consider a dedicated server. For a first server, consider a tower system as they can pack plenty of hardware into a compact form factor. Once you outgrow the needs of a single tower, you may want to invest in rackmount server hardware and it allows for increased expansion.
Additional Resources:
Servers: Build or Buy?
Server Migration: Lenovo Solutions
Server Migration: HP Solutions
Server Migration: Dell Solutions
Is your SMB still utilizing a peer-to-peer network? If so, let us know in the comments why you haven’t yet introduced a server into your network.
SummaryArticle NameDo I Need a Dedicated Server? 6 Reasons You Do – HardBoiledDescriptionNot sure if you need a dedicated server? We have a list of scenarios that would be better addressed by introducing server hardware into the thorAdam Lovinus
Frequently Asked Questions about what is the purpose of having a server
What is the main purpose of a server?
The server is the computer that is providing information or services to the other computer. The networks rely on each other to provide and share information and services. These are typically only used in small offices or homes.Sep 25, 2019
Why would you need a server?
A dedicated server accepts and fulfills the requests of client computers on the network. What do we mean by requests? Requests can be access to a specific file or application, instructions to the printer, or access to the Internet. Servers “serve” client computers data that users request.
What is a server and why do we need it?
A server serves information to computers that connect to it. Clients can connect to a server through either a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet. When users connect to a server, they can access programs, files, and other information from the server.May 8, 2019
What Is The Purpose Of Having A Server
Server (computing) – Wikipedia
First WWW server located at CERN with its original sticker that says: “This machine is a server. DO NOT POWER IT DOWN!! ”
In computing, a server is a piece of computer hardware or software (computer program) that provides functionality for other programs or devices, called “clients”. This architecture is called the client–server model. Servers can provide various functionalities, often called “services”, such as sharing data or resources among multiple clients, or performing computation for a client. A single server can serve multiple clients, and a single client can use multiple servers. A client process may run on the same device or may connect over a network to a server on a different device. [1] Typical servers are database servers, file servers, mail servers, print servers, web servers, game servers, and application servers. [2]
Client–server systems are today most frequently implemented by (and often identified with) the request–response model: a client sends a request to the server, which performs some action and sends a response back to the client, typically with a result or acknowledgment. Designating a computer as “server-class hardware” implies that it is specialized for running servers on it. This often implies that it is more powerful and reliable than standard personal computers, but alternatively, large computing clusters may be composed of many relatively simple, replaceable server components.
History[edit]
The use of the word server in computing comes from queueing theory, [3] where it dates to the mid 20th century, being notably used in Kendall (1953) (along with “service”), the paper that introduced Kendall’s notation. In earlier papers, such as the Erlang (1909), more concrete terms such as “[telephone] operators” are used.
In computing, “server” dates at least to RFC 5 (1969), [4] one of the earliest documents describing ARPANET (the predecessor of Internet), and is contrasted with “user”, distinguishing two types of host: “server-host” and “user-host”. The use of “serving” also dates to early documents, such as RFC 4, [5] contrasting “serving-host” with “using-host”.
The Jargon File defines “server” in the common sense of a process performing service for requests, usually remote, with the 1981 (1. 1. 0) version reading:
SERVER n. A kind of DAEMON which performs a service for the requester, which often runs on a computer other than the one on which the server runs.
Operation[edit]
A network based on the client–server model where multiple individual clients request services and resources from centralized servers
Strictly speaking, the term server refers to a computer program or process (running program). Through metonymy, it refers to a device used for (or a device dedicated to) running one or several server programs. On a network, such a device is called a host. In addition to server, the words serve and service (as verb and as noun respectively) are frequently used, though servicer and servant are not. [a] The word service (noun) may refer to either the abstract form of functionality, e. g. Web service. Alternatively, it may refer to a computer program that turns a computer into a server, e. Windows service. Originally used as “servers serve users” (and “users use servers”), in the sense of “obey”, today one often says that “servers serve data”, in the same sense as “give”. For instance, web servers “serve [up] web pages to users” or “service their requests”.
The server is part of the client–server model; in this model, a server serves data for clients. The nature of communication between a client and server is request and response. This is in contrast with peer-to-peer model in which the relationship is on-demand reciprocation. In principle, any computerized process that can be used or called by another process (particularly remotely, particularly to share a resource) is a server, and the calling process or processes is a client. Thus any general-purpose computer connected to a network can host servers. For example, if files on a device are shared by some process, that process is a file server. Similarly, web server software can run on any capable computer, and so a laptop or a personal computer can host a web server.
While request–response is the most common client-server design, there are others, such as the publish–subscribe pattern. In the publish-subscribe pattern, clients register with a pub-sub server, subscribing to specified types of messages; this initial registration may be done by request-response. Thereafter, the pub-sub server forwards matching messages to the clients without any further requests: the server pushes messages to the client, rather than the client pulling messages from the server as in request-response. [6]
Purpose[edit]
The role of a server is to share data as well as to share resources and distribute work. A server computer can serve its own computer programs as well; depending on the scenario, this could be part of a quid pro quo transaction, or simply a technical possibility. The following table shows several scenarios in which a server is used.
Server type
Purpose
Clients
Application server
Hosts web apps (computer programs that run inside a web browser) allowing users in the network to run and use them, without having to install a copy on their own computers. Unlike what the name might imply, these servers do not need to be part of the World Wide Web; any local network would do.
Computers with a web browser
Catalog server
Maintains an index or table of contents of information that can be found across a large distributed network, such as computers, users, files shared on file servers, and web apps. Directory servers and name servers are examples of catalog servers.
Any computer program that needs to find something on the network, such a Domain member attempting to log in, an email client looking for an email address, or a user looking for a file
Communications server
Maintains an environment needed for one communication endpoint (user or devices) to find other endpoints and communicate with them. It may or may not include a directory of communication endpoints and a presence detection service, depending on the openness and security parameters of the network
Communication endpoints (users or devices)
Computing server
Shares vast amounts of computing resources, especially CPU and random-access memory, over a network.
Any computer program that needs more CPU power and RAM than a personal computer can probably afford. The client must be a networked computer; otherwise, there would be no client-server model.
Database server
Maintains and shares any form of database (organized collections of data with predefined properties that may be displayed in a table) over a network.
Spreadsheets, accounting software, asset management software or virtually any computer program that consumes well-organized data, especially in large volumes
Fax server
Shares one or more fax machines over a network, thus eliminating the hassle of physical access
Any fax sender or recipient
File server
Shares files and folders, storage space to hold files and folders, or both, over a network
Networked computers are the intended clients, even though local programs can be clients
Game server
Enables several computers or gaming devices to play multiplayer video games
Personal computers or gaming consoles
Mail server
Makes email communication possible in the same way that a post office makes snail mail communication possible
Senders and recipients of email
Media server
Shares digital video or digital audio over a network through media streaming (transmitting content in a way that portions received can be watched or listened to as they arrive, as opposed to downloading an entire file and then using it)
User-attended personal computers equipped with a monitor and a speaker
Print server
Shares one or more printers over a network, thus eliminating the hassle of physical access
Computers in need of printing something
Sound server
Enables computer programs to play and record sound, individually or cooperatively
Computer programs of the same computer and network clients.
Proxy server
Acts as an intermediary between a client and a server, accepting incoming traffic from the client and sending it to the server. Reasons for doing so include content control and filtering, improving traffic performance, preventing unauthorized network access or simply routing the traffic over a large and complex network.
Any networked computer
Virtual server
Shares hardware and software resources with other virtual servers. It exists only as defined within specialized software called hypervisor. The hypervisor presents virtual hardware to the server as if it were real physical hardware. [7] Server virtualization allows for a more efficient infrastructure. [8]
Web server
Hosts web pages. A web server is what makes the World Wide Web possible. Each website has one or more web servers. Also, each server can host multiple websites.
Almost the entire structure of the Internet is based upon a client–server model. High-level root nameservers, DNS, and routers direct the traffic on the internet. There are millions of servers connected to the Internet, running continuously throughout the world[9] and virtually every action taken by an ordinary Internet user requires one or more interactions with one or more servers. There are exceptions that do not use dedicated servers; for example, peer-to-peer file sharing and some implementations of telephony (e. pre-Microsoft Skype).
Hardware[edit]
A rack-mountable server with the top cover removed to reveal internal components
Hardware requirement for servers vary widely, depending on the server’s purpose and its software. Servers are more often than not, more powerful and expensive than the clients that connect to them.
Since servers are usually accessed over a network, many run unattended without a computer monitor or input device, audio hardware and USB interfaces. Many servers do not have a graphical user interface (GUI). They are configured and managed remotely. Remote management can be conducted via various methods including Microsoft Management Console (MMC), PowerShell, SSH and browser-based out-of-band management systems such as Dell’s iDRAC or HP’s iLo.
Large servers[edit]
Large traditional single servers would need to be run for long periods without interruption. Availability would have to be very high, making hardware reliability and durability extremely important. Mission-critical enterprise servers would be very fault tolerant and use specialized hardware with low failure rates in order to maximize uptime. Uninterruptible power supplies might be incorporated to guard against power failure. Servers typically include hardware redundancy such as dual power supplies, RAID disk systems, and ECC memory, [10] along with extensive pre-boot memory testing and verification. Critical components might be hot swappable, allowing technicians to replace them on the running server without shutting it down, and to guard against overheating, servers might have more powerful fans or use water cooling. They will often be able to be configured, powered up and down, or rebooted remotely, using out-of-band management, typically based on IPMI. Server casings are usually flat and wide, and designed to be rack-mounted, either on 19-inch racks or on Open Racks.
These types of servers are often housed in dedicated data centers. These will normally have very stable power and Internet and increased security. Noise is also less of a concern, but power consumption and heat output can be a serious issue. Server rooms are equipped with air conditioning devices.
Clusters[edit]
A server farm or server cluster is a collection of computer servers maintained by an organization to supply server functionality far beyond the capability of a single device. Modern data centers are now often built of very large clusters of much simpler servers, [11] and there is a collaborative effort, Open Compute Project around this concept.
Appliances[edit]
A class of small specialist servers called network appliances are generally at the low end of the scale, often being smaller than common desktop computers.
Mobile[edit]
A mobile server has a portable form factor, e. a laptop. [12] In contrast to large data centers or rack servers, the mobile server is designed for on-the-road or ad hoc deployment into emergency, disaster or temporary environments where traditional servers are not feasible due to their power requirements, size, and deployment time. [13] The main beneficiaries of so-called “server on the go” technology include network managers, software or database developers, training centers, military personnel, law enforcement, forensics, emergency relief groups, and service organizations. [14] To facilitate portability, features such as the keyboard, display, battery (uninterruptible power supply, to provide power redundancy in case of failure), and mouse are all integrated into the chassis.
Operating systems[edit]
Sun’s Cobalt Qube 3; a computer server appliance (2002); running Cobalt Linux (a customized version of Red Hat Linux, using the 2. 2 Linux kernel), complete with the Apache web server.
On the Internet the dominant operating systems among servers are UNIX-like open-source distributions, such as those based on Linux and FreeBSD, [15] with Windows Server also having a significant share. Proprietary operating systems such as z/OS and macOS Server are also deployed, but in much smaller numbers.
Specialist server-oriented operating systems have traditionally had features such as:
GUI not available or optional
Ability to reconfigure and update both hardware and software to some extent without restart
Advanced backup facilities to permit regular and frequent online backups of critical data,
Transparent data transfer between different volumes or devices
Flexible and advanced networking capabilities
Automation capabilities such as daemons in UNIX and services in Windows
Tight system security, with advanced user, resource, data, and memory protection.
Advanced detection and alerting on conditions such as overheating, processor and disk failure. [16]
In practice, today many desktop and server operating systems share similar code bases, differing mostly in configuration.
Energy consumption[edit]
In 2010, data centers (servers, cooling, and other electrical infrastructure) were responsible for 1. 1-1. 5% of electrical energy consumption worldwide and 1. 7-2. 2% in the United States. [17] One estimate is that total energy consumption for information and communications technology saves more than 5 times its carbon footprint[18] in the rest of the economy by increasing efficiency.
Global energy consumption is increasing due to the increasing demand of data and bandwidth. Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) states that data centers used 91 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) electrical energy in 2013 which accounts to 3% of global electricity usage.
Environmental groups have placed focus on the carbon emissions of data centers as it accounts to 200 million metric tons of carbon dioxide in a year.
Various hosting providers have introduced eco-friendly servers that reduced carbon emissions by 80% through off-shelf equipment and energy management.
See also[edit]
Peer-to-peer
Notes[edit]
^ A CORBA servant is a server-side object to which method calls from remote method invocation are forwarded, but this is an uncommon usage.
References[edit]
^ Windows Server Administration Fundamentals. Microsoft Official Academic Course. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030: John Wiley & Sons. 2011. pp. 2–3. ISBN 978-0-470-90182-3. CS1 maint: location (link)
^ Comer, Douglas E. ; Stevens, David L (1993). Vol III: Client-Server Programming and Applications. Internetworking with TCP/IP. Department of Computer Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 479: Prentice Hall. pp. 11d. ISBN 978-0-13-474222-9. CS1 maint: location (link)
^ Richard A. Henle, Boris W. Kuvshinoff, C. M. Kuvshinoff (1992). Desktop computers: in perspective. Oxford University Press. p. 417. ISBN 9780195070316. Server is a fairly recent computer networking term derived from queuing theory. CS1 maint: uses authors parameter (link)
^ Rulifson, Jeff (June 1969). DEL. IETF. doi:10. 17487/RFC0005. RFC 5. Retrieved 30 November 2013.
^ Shapiro, Elmer B. (March 1969). Network Timetable. 17487/RFC0004. RFC 4. Retrieved 30 November 2013.
^ Using the HTTP Publish-Subscribe Server, Oracle
^ IT Explained. “Server – Definition and Details”.
^ IT Explained. “DNS Server Not Responding”.
^ “Web Servers”. IT Business Edge. Retrieved July 31, 2013.
^ Li, Huang, Shen, Chu (2010). “”A Realistic Evaluation of Memory Hardware Errors and Software System Susceptibility”. Usenix Annual Tech Conference 2010″ (PDF). Retrieved 2017-01-30. CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
^ “Google uncloaks once-secret server”. CNET. CBS Interactive. Retrieved 2017-01-30.
^ “Mobile Server, Power to go, EUROCOM Panther 5SE”. Archived from the original on 2013-03-17.
^ “Mobile Server Notebook”.
^ “Server-caliber Computer Doubles as a Mobile Workstation”.
^ “Usage statistics and market share of Linux for websites”. Retrieved 18 Jan 2013.
^ “Server Oriented Operating System”. Retrieved 2010-05-25.
^ Markoff, John (31 Jul 2011). “Data Centers Using Less Power Than Forecast, Report Says”. NY Times. Retrieved 18 Jan 2013.
^ “SMART 2020: Enabling the low carbon economy in the information age” (PDF). The Climate Group. 6 Oct 2008. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 November 2010. Retrieved 18 Jan 2013.
Further reading[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Servers.
Erlang, Agner Krarup (1909). “The theory of probabilities and telephone conversations” (PDF). Nyt Tidsskrift for Matematik B. 20: 33–39. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2011-10-01.
Kendall, D. G. (1953). “Stochastic Processes Occurring in the Theory of Queues and their Analysis by the Method of the Imbedded Markov Chain”. The Annals of Mathematical Statistics. 24 (3): 338–354. 1214/aoms/1177728975. JSTOR 2236285.
What is the purpose of a computer server? – ProMAX Systems
by Matthew Mister, on Sep 25, 2019 3:01:03 PMA server is a computer connected to a network of other workstations called ‘clients’. Client computers request information from the server over the network.
Servers tend to have more storage, memory and processing power than a normal workstation.
How a server functions depends on the type of network it is on. Let’s dive into a few different types of networks and how servers interact with them.
Peer-to-peer
In a peer-to-peer network, each workstation plays the role of client and server. The server is the computer that is providing information or services to the other computer. The networks rely on each other to provide and share information and services. These are typically only used in small offices or homes.
Client / Server
In a client/server network there is one server that is only dedicated to provide services to the other client workstations. You can have multiple servers in these networks but they can not function as workstations. Client/server networks are the most commonly used.
Specialized Servers
There are a few common types of specialized servers. These include DNS, Web or Mail servers. These can hold databases of internet domains, supply access to websites or to email accounts.
Need a Dedicated Server? 6 Reasons You Do – HardBoiled
In a small business, the standard peer-to-peer networking model used in homes and very small offices eventually becomes insufficient. Eventually user demands—such as access to shared storage drives and printers—increases beyond what a router and endpoints can do. So, how do you know when you should introduce a server into your small office network? If any of the following scenarios sound familiar to you, it is time to think about deploying dedicated server hardware on premises.
But first, what is a dedicated server by definition?
When you introduce a dedicated server to a network setup, computers will communicate with the server instead of directly with each other. A dedicated server accepts and fulfills the requests of client computers on the network. What do we mean by requests? Requests can be access to a specific file or application, instructions to the printer, or access to the Internet. Servers “serve” client computers data that users request. A dedicated server has hardware designed precisely for this functionality, so performance tends to improve and becomes more reliable.
You Need a Dedicated Server When…
Managing e-mail for an increasing number of people. Many small businesses start out using free cloud-hosted e-mail services. For example, Microsoft Office 365 Business Premium works great for keeping a small workforce connected and in sync with their messaging. You can scale up the ranks in Office 365 to Enterprise licensing and always have adequate user inboxes. It works, but as your business grows you will want a dedicated Exchange server because it adds very useful manageability features.
Tasks like enabling a remote archive require an on-premises Exchange server is one example. After a business grows past a handful of seats, Microsoft recommends a hybrid set up where businesses use Office 365 in tandem with their own server. Should you migrate e-mail entirely in-house, an Exchange server eliminates your reliance on Web-based e-mail clients, and allows you to easily add in-boxes as your office expands. You can say goodbye to imposed e-mail file size and capacity limits and set your own.
Multiple users need to access the same data. Even small businesses need a centralized data storage location. Cloud hosting is wonderful as well, but after a certain point, cloud hosting costs can get unwieldy if you’re not mindful of pricing and SLAs. Cloud storage comes with its risks, and if Internet goes down locally it disrupts your access to cloud data.
When a business is very small, network attached storage devices suffice for file sharing. After growing past a dozen seats, a business is ready for a real domain controller–hardware that runs Windows Server software, Active Directory, and file and print services. Things that make managing user permissions a whole lot easier for your business. An entry-level domain controller doesn’t need enterprise specifications, but it should be able to scale up when you need it. You want to have DIMM slots to add server memory, and PCIe x 16 slot to add a RAID controller. You won’t get that with a NAS.
You Start to Use Applications that Require a Secure Database. A database stores information that can be accessed and updated by programs. For instance, if you have multiple POS stations or employee time clocks, the database houses the files containing information about inventory, order history, and punch-in times. Planning on implementing QuickBooks? A database stores your essential information securely, limiting access. Storing important data on an unsecure storage solution like a USB drive introduces risk into your systems.
Managing shared resources across the workspace. Some examples of shared resources include printers, optical disc drives, and applications. Servers can take over the print sharing duties of a router and also allow for the use of older unsupported printers. In a peer-to-peer network, one common problem with sharing a connected resource is drive mapping. Storage drives are assigned letters when connected, such as C: for the primary hard drive, D:, E:, and etc. for additional drives. While a drive connected to one computer can be shared with the network, it may have a different drive letter for the other computers. A server can assign a drive letter shared by every client computer.
Centralized control over network security management. In a peer-to-peer network configuration, installing security software on every machine offers excellent protection. In an environment of 10+ seats, going to every computer and running an installer takes up quite a bit of time. A single Windows Server security application makes network-wide security management much easier. From a single machine, you can run virus scans, manage spam filters, and install programs across the network.
One computer to do the job of multiple systems. A server can assume the functions of some devices, such as the router, the NAS device, backup storage drive, and firewall. With a server, you can virtualize the functions of multiple devices to run simultaneously on the same machine. Some server tasks barely tax the hardware so running multiple physical systems can be a waste of space and energy when a single server can suffice.
If you experience the scenarios above, consider a dedicated server. For a first server, consider a tower system as they can pack plenty of hardware into a compact form factor. Once you outgrow the needs of a single tower, you may want to invest in rackmount server hardware and it allows for increased expansion.
Additional Resources:
Servers: Build or Buy?
Server Migration: Lenovo Solutions
Server Migration: HP Solutions
Server Migration: Dell Solutions
Is your SMB still utilizing a peer-to-peer network? If so, let us know in the comments why you haven’t yet introduced a server into your network.
SummaryArticle NameDo I Need a Dedicated Server? 6 Reasons You Do – HardBoiledDescriptionNot sure if you need a dedicated server? We have a list of scenarios that would be better addressed by introducing server hardware into the thorAdam Lovinus
Frequently Asked Questions about what is the purpose of having a server
What is the main purpose of a server?
The server is the computer that is providing information or services to the other computer. The networks rely on each other to provide and share information and services. These are typically only used in small offices or homes.Sep 25, 2019
Why would you need a server?
A dedicated server accepts and fulfills the requests of client computers on the network. What do we mean by requests? Requests can be access to a specific file or application, instructions to the printer, or access to the Internet. Servers “serve” client computers data that users request.
What is a server and why do we need it?
A server serves information to computers that connect to it. Clients can connect to a server through either a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet. When users connect to a server, they can access programs, files, and other information from the server.May 8, 2019
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