The Computer's Computer

What is a Server?

In it's most basic definition, a server is simply a computer that provides services to other computers. Some of these services may include data storage, file sharing amongst a network, or pulling up web pages.

What is Being Served?

Different servers provide different services. The type of server we will be focusing on today is the web server, described below:

“Web servers are computers that deliver (serves up) Web pages. Every Web server has an IP address and possibly a domain name. For example, if you enter the URL "http://www.webopedia.com/index.html" in your browser, this sends a request to the Web server whose domain name is webopedia.com. The server then fetches the page named index.html and sends it to your browser.

Any computer can be turned into a Web server by installing server software and connecting the machine to the Internet. There are many Web server software applications, including public domain software and commercial packages.”

-Webopedia, Vangie Beal

Why do we need Servers?

You may be asking yourself, why are servers needed? Storing data, sharing files, and accessing the web can all be accomplished by personal computers! To answer this question, it is important to remember that computers are used in multiple contexts beyond personal use. For example, entire companies need a way of managing their personnel's data in a safe and secure way. Servers act as middle man (or woman) between user requests and computer functionality. Breaking up these tasks between servers is better in the long run to ensure sustainability and data security.

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