All computer users sometimes come across the concept of a server. The name comes from the word serving. Visited websites, mailing lists, games – everything is stored on servers. Initially, this term was used to describe an action launched on a computer. What does “server” mean today?

Essentially, a server is a computer or machine that is connected to the World Wide Web and is always on, able to read and respond to requests via the Internet.

So is it a device or software?

Given that a server is a set of powerful machines located in one place, it can be considered a device. Machines are designed to concentrate a huge amount of data. The server is also the software installed on the same computers. It processes requests over the network. Human involvement in this process is limited to the initial setup.

Other systems connected to the same network as the server are called clients. After receiving a task from the client, the server processes it and responds.

The main purpose of a server is to store and exchange information with programs and other servers.

Types of servers:

1. Web server. It allows all websites of the global network to function, so it is a popular server. When opening any article on the Internet, the user connects to a web server. The program receives a request and provides information in a form accessible to the user. Modern web servers can handle a large number of requests simultaneously.
2. File or database server. It is necessary for processing large files and restricting access to data. For example, a large company uploads a file archive, and employees access it from their personal computers.
3. A game server. It is required to run games online. It receives and processes information about user actions in the game and informs about new gaming products.
4. Mail server. It is used to move emails, read emails, monitor email addresses, and generate automatic reply emails. To interact with such a server, users need an email client.
5. Video server. It is used to store videos, movies, clips, etc. Users can watch videos without using their own disk space.
6. Proxy server. An intermediary between the client and various Internet resources. It can store frequently requested information, quickly delivering it to the user without re-requesting it. It is necessary to properly distribute the load or hide your real IP address. Protects the network.

7. DNS server. It contains information about the consistency between IP addresses and website domain addresses.
8. The program server. Realizes its capabilities by synthesizing existing technologies. With the help of the application server, the user receives a comprehensive solution with all the necessary technologies.
9. VPN server. Allows you to encrypt and protect personal data.
10. Network server. Through it, some organizations can control actions on the Internet and track downloaded files.
11. Remote access server. Geographically located outside the company. It is necessary for the cooperation of employees.
12. Fax server. Prints documents to a printer and sends them to different addresses according to a set schedule. Capable of sorting and transmitting outgoing faxes on demand.
13. Print server. It is used in large offices for simultaneous access to multiple printers.
14. Mini-server. Users sometimes buy servers for personal home use. They have less power and performance, but more than a regular PC.
15. A backup server or backup system. Restores lost information and network performance after an incorrect update.
16. Workgroup server. This type combines several servers: file, application, database, print, and mail servers. It is used in small companies.

The servers are constantly in working condition so that the resources necessary for the user are not disconnected. They are serviced by hosting providers. One of the main advantages of the server is the high reliability of information storage. Even if one of the server disks fails, there are ways to fully recover data.

When choosing a server, you should first of all consider what tasks you need it for.