What is a Server? Servers vs Desktops Explained

PowerCert Animated Videos2 minutes read

Servers are dedicated computers that provide services to clients, like retrieving websites or emails. They need reliable hardware and run continuously, hosting different services like websites, emails, or databases on the same machine.

Insights

  • Servers require robust hardware like Intel Xeon processors, ECC RAM, hot-swappable hard drives, and redundant power supplies to ensure reliability and continuous operation.
  • Various types of servers exist, including web servers for websites, email servers for emails, and database servers for data storage, each serving specific functions tailored to organizational needs.

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Recent questions

  • What is a server?

    A server is a dedicated computer that provides services to clients, such as retrieving websites, accessing data, or emails, either over the Internet or in a local area network. Servers can be dedicated to specific services like websites, data storage, or email individually, or handle multiple services on the same machine based on the organization's needs.

  • What hardware is needed for servers?

    Servers need to be reliable and run 24/7, requiring robust hardware like Intel Xeon processors, ECC RAM, hot-swappable hard drives in a RAID configuration, and redundant power supplies to ensure continuous operation and data integrity.

  • What are the types of servers?

    Different types of servers exist, such as web servers for hosting websites, email servers for sending and receiving emails, and database servers for storing and retrieving data using queries like SQL. Each type serves a specific function in providing services to clients.

  • What are server operating systems?

    Server operating systems like Linux, Windows Server, or macOS Server are designed to be stable, handle thousands of connections, and run non-stop, unlike desktop operating systems. These specialized systems are optimized for server tasks and ensure reliable performance for various services.

  • Why are servers important for organizations?

    Servers play a crucial role in organizations by providing essential services like hosting websites, storing and managing data, and facilitating communication through emails. They ensure reliable access to information, efficient data management, and seamless communication within the organization and with external clients. Servers are vital for maintaining productivity and connectivity in modern businesses.

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Summary

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Essential Functions and Types of Servers

  • A server is a dedicated computer that provides services to clients, such as retrieving websites, accessing data, or emails, either over the Internet or in a local area network.
  • Servers can be dedicated to specific services like websites, data storage, or email individually, or handle multiple services on the same machine based on the organization's needs.
  • Servers need to be reliable and run 24/7, requiring robust hardware like Intel Xeon processors, ECC RAM, hot-swappable hard drives in a RAID configuration, and redundant power supplies.
  • Different types of servers exist, such as web servers for hosting websites, email servers for sending and receiving emails, and database servers for storing and retrieving data using queries like SQL.
  • Server operating systems like Linux, Windows Server, or macOS Server are designed to be stable, handle thousands of connections, and run non-stop, unlike desktop operating systems.
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