Servers
Servers
A server is a computer or software that provides services, data, or resources to other computers on a network, which are called clients.
Simple Example
When you open a website:
Your laptop or phone (client) sends a request.
The website's computer (server) receives the request.
The server sends the webpage back to your device.
Your browser displays the website.
Real-World Analogy
Think of a restaurant:
Customer = Client
Waiter taking orders = Network connection
Kitchen = Server
Food = Data
The customer requests food, and the kitchen provides it. Similarly, a client requests data, and the server provides it.
Common Types of Servers
Web Server
Hosts websites.
Examples:
Microsoft IIS
Apache
Nginx
File Server
Stores and shares files across a network.
Example:
Company shared drives
Email Server
Sends, receives, and stores email.
Examples:
Microsoft Exchange
Gmail servers
Database Server
Stores and manages databases.
Examples:
Microsoft SQL Server
MySQL
Oracle
DNS Server
Translates website names into IP addresses.
Example:
Converts www.microsoft.com into an address computers can understand.
DHCP Server
Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices joining the network.
How a Server Works
Plain Text
Client (PC)
|
| Request
v
Server
|
| Response
Client receives data
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Server Characteristics
Servers are typically:
Always powered on
More powerful than regular PCs
Have large amounts of RAM and storage
Connected to high-speed networks
Designed to serve multiple users simultaneously
Network+ Example
In a business network:
Plain Text
Users' PCs
|
Switch
|
Server
|
Router
|
Internet
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The server may:
Authenticate users with Active Directory
Store company files
Host applications
Manage printers
Maintain databases
Key Interview Definition
A server is a device or application that provides resources, services, or data to other devices (clients) over a network.
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