A server is a computer program or a device that provides services, data, or resources to other computers, known as clients, over a network. This setup is called the client-server model, where the server responds to requests from clients by delivering the requested information or services
. Servers can be specialized computers designed to run server software continuously, often with higher performance, reliability, and scalability than typical personal computers. They manage network resources such as files, emails, web pages, applications, or computing power, serving multiple clients simultaneously
. There are many types of servers based on their functions, including:
- Web servers: Deliver web pages to browsers.
- File servers: Store and share files.
- Mail servers: Manage email communication.
- Database servers: Store and manage databases.
- Game servers: Enable multiplayer gaming.
- Print servers: Manage printers on a network.
- Proxy servers: Act as intermediaries between clients and other servers
In essence, a server acts like a digital librarian or manager that organizes, stores, and shares data or services to clients on a network, enabling the vast majority of internet and network operations