What is a server?

A server is a computer system or software that provides functionality for other programs or devices, known as clients. It serves data, resources, or services to clients over a network. Servers are essential for networking, communication, and overall information exchange on the internet.

Types of Servers

Servers come in various types to cater to different needs, such as:

• Web servers: Serve web pages, websites, and web applications to clients over the internet.
• File servers: Store and manage files for clients to access over a network.
• Database servers: Manage databases and allow clients to access and query data.
• Mail servers: Handle email communication by sending, receiving, and storing emails.
• Application servers: Host and manage applications for clients to use remotely.

How Servers Work

Servers operate in a client-server model, where clients request services or resources from the server through a network. The server processes these requests and responds accordingly. Servers typically run specialized software to handle specific tasks efficiently, like managing user requests, storing data, or running applications.

In essence, servers play a vital role in enabling communication, sharing resources, and delivering services across networks, making them integral to modern computing and the internet.