Have you ever encountered a message while visiting a website informing you that the site is unable to respond to your request because its server is down? This might have led you to wonder what exactly a web server is, especially if you're unfamiliar with the term. Web servers are the backbone of all websites on the Internet. Every website needs a server to stay operational continuously, providing services to users. Therefore, it is important to understand that a server is not a traditional computer; rather, it is a computer with high capabilities and strong resources, allowing it to operate continuously for long periods without interruption.
How Does a Server Work in Networks?
Did you know that you interact with hundreds or thousands of web servers daily, either directly or indirectly, without even realizing it? Have you ever wondered how these servers work? Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Browser Request: It all starts when you type the URL of the website you want to visit in your web browser.
- DNS Lookup: The browser connects to a DNS server to find out the IP address associated with that domain name.
- IP Address Retrieval: The DNS server sends the retrieved IP address back to the browser.
- Server Connection: The browser then connects to the web server associated with that IP address.
- Data Retrieval: The web server, which contains the website's files, sends the requested content to the browser.
- Content Display: The browser displays the website content as requested.
Server Components
As mentioned earlier, a server is essentially a computer but with additional features. Although servers and traditional computers are similar in many ways, there are distinct differences in their core components. The internal components of a server differ in terms of size and capacity based on its use and requirements. These components include:
- Case: The foundation of the server, housing all its parts.
- Central Processing Unit (CPU): Similar to a regular computer's CPU, it is responsible for executing most tasks and controlling the server.
- Random Access Memory (RAM): Known as RAM, it is a type of storage medium known for its high speed, storing all the programs and files currently being used. At LinkTech, you can find servers with 8 GB of RAM.
- Storage Drive: The primary storage location for files, available in two main types: HDD and SSD.
- Server Cooler: Responsible for cooling the CPU and other server components, essentially functioning like a fan.
- Power Supply Unit (PSU): A comprehensive unit responsible for supplying electrical power to all internal server components.
- Motherboard: The electronic board that connects all server components.
- Internet Modem: A small device acting as a converter, its function is to connect the Internet to the motherboard. It is used if the server does not have built-in Internet connectivity and requires an additional device for connection.
- Operating System (OS): The software responsible for fully operating the server, transforming it from just a device to a responsive one, and executing various commands. Common OS options include Linux, Windows, and macOS.
What are the Basic Functions of Network Servers?
A server is essential for the operation of websites, primarily responding to incoming requests and delivering data to visitors (website users). However, it's important to know that servers can be used in various ways, depending on the types of software installed, which define their work environment. Generally, the main functions of servers can be summarized in the following tasks:
- Hosting Websites: This is the most prominent and well-known use of servers, particularly shared hosting services provided by famous companies.
- Running Applications: Servers can run accounting or management programs, allowing access to these programs from any location at any time without needing to be physically present at the workplace.
- File Storage: Servers are specifically used to store important files of all types in large companies and banks, ensuring quick retrieval at any time and allowing employees to add, delete, or modify files according to their job roles.
Types of Servers
As mentioned earlier, the functions of a server depend on its type and work environment. Here are the different types of servers:
- Dedicated Server
- A dedicated unit that serves only one company or individual, allowing full utilization of the server’s capabilities, including RAM, CPU, storage, and more. It is considered the best type of server, providing the highest level of privacy and security, making it suitable for large companies, institutions, and major websites.
- Virtual Private Server (VPS)
- This involves dividing the main server into several virtual or imaginary servers, each sold separately. All users share the primary server's capabilities. Known as Virtual Private Servers, they offer a cost-effective solution for hosting.
- Application Server
- Designed to run games and applications, available in different types to support various programming languages, such as PHP and Java. It is crucial to choose a server compatible with the programming language used by the application.
- Domain Server
- Responsible for storing domain names on networks and replacing them with the original network name (IP address), known as Internet Protocol addresses in the global Internet network (NET) or local area network (LAN). This type is essential for converting website names from numbers to easy-to-remember words.
- Web Server
- The most well-known type of server, specifically prepared for web hosting companies to run different websites. It consists of a group of interconnected servers within a large data center.
- Cloud Servers
- One of the most important and best-selling server types, known for their high level of security and superior speed compared to other types.
- Email Server
- Responsible for receiving, sending, and storing emails. Large companies rely on this type separately to fully control the email sending and receiving process, preventing hackers and spies from intercepting network messages. It also plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of communications to and from the company, preventing the loss of any emails, and guaranteeing their retrieval if lost.
- Database Server
- Manages and stores the databases of programs and applications within a company's or institution's internal network.
Understanding the fundamental roles and various types of servers in networks can help you choose the best server for your needs. At LinkTech, you can shop for the best types of servers, ensuring high performance and exceptional specifications. Just determine your requirements, start shopping, and purchase at the best prices in the Saudi market.