In contemporary programming, the dominant architecture revolves around client-server communication. In this model, a client computer initiates a request for data from a server. The server, which can encompass both hardware and software components, receives the request and provides a response by either delivering the requested data or indicating an error.
The term “server” can encompass various forms of computer hardware and software that offer specific functionalities to other programs.
Servers hold significant importance in the realm of consuming goods and services, and they find application in various domains of computer networking. It is essential to understand the different types of servers, their specific use cases, and how they distinguish themselves from one another.
1.Origin Servers
Origin servers are responsible for receiving and responding to incoming internet requests. They are typically used in conjunction with edge and caching servers. These servers consist of one or more programs that deliver web content to clients.
Origin servers are commonly used to serve data to clients, such as websites. However, they can be slow due to the distance between the client and the server. The server needs to process clients’ requests and responses, which can result in delays during loading.
To reduce latency, Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) can be employed. CDNs consist of distributed servers that cache content close to the client, minimizing the distance between the origin server and the client and reducing latency. CDNs efficiently handle internet assets like HTML pages, JavaScript files, images, and videos, facilitating the transfer of internet content.
2.Proxy Servers
Proxy servers act as intermediaries between clients and servers. They process client requests on behalf of the client, while masking the client’s identity, and deliver the response from the source server.
Proxy servers serve as content control software, filtering encrypted data, logging access, and enhancing network security. They utilize different protocols to fulfill their tasks.
Users can set up their own proxy server to help protect their device’s identity on the web, reducing the risk of attacks. Organizations also use proxy servers to restrict access to certain types of web content on their networks. Proxy servers work in conjunction with origin servers to reduce latency and improve security.
3.Web Servers
A web server refers to both the software and hardware that handle requests over the web. It utilizes various network protocols like HTTP, SMTP, and FTP to process content.
The primary function of a web server is to display website content. It processes, stores, and delivers content to users through the web. The hardware of the web server establishes connections and exchanges data with connected devices.
The software component controls how users access the data. Web servers are commonly used in web hosting or to host data for web-based applications.
4.Database Servers
Database servers are responsible for managing databases that store data or information. They can be any server that handles files within a database application. These servers regulate access to the database for authorized users.
Programmers utilize scripting languages like SQL to create databases on database servers. Applications need to connect to the database server in order to access the stored data.
Database servers centrally store backup data and allow authorized users and applications on the network to access the data. Organizations rely on database servers to process client requests, enforce data security measures, and protect sensitive information.
A single database can have multiple servers, and multiple databases can share a single server. Examples of database servers include Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle.
5.Cloud Servers
A cloud server is a centralized server hosted remotely by a cloud service provider. Clients can access the server via an internet connection. Similar to physical servers, cloud servers are capable of storing, processing, and delivering data. They provide remote services to clients regardless of their location.
Cloud servers are delivered through the internet as virtualized resources. This process involves the abstraction of physical servers by a hypervisor, creating virtual resources that can be automated and accessed by clients over the internet.
Clients using cloud servers do not own or manage their own physical servers. Instead, they rely on a third-party organization that provides server services, following the infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) model. This form of cloud computing allows clients to pay for the usage of cloud servers, enabling them to store, manage, and scale their resources as needed. Clients can opt for a public cloud shared with other users or have a private or hybrid cloud, combining on-premise and virtual environments. Examples of cloud server providers include Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure.
6.Mail Servers
Mail servers are responsible for controlling the sending and receiving of emails over a network. They receive mail from clients and deliver it to other mail servers or clients. Mail servers facilitate the handling and delivery of emails across a network, such as the internet.
A mail server powers email services by receiving emails from clients and routing them to the appropriate mail servers. Clients can be various computing software, including desktop or mobile devices. Mail servers utilize the Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) to process and deliver email information. Popular email service providers like Gmail and Yahoo also function as mail servers.
7.DNS Servers
A DNS (Domain Name System) server translates domain names into corresponding IP addresses. When you enter a domain name into your browser, it references a DNS server to retrieve the associated IP address. In a computer network, all devices have unique identifying IP addresses that they use to connect to the internet.
DNS servers eliminate the need to remember and input IP addresses directly. Instead, by typing in a domain name, the DNS server translates it into the corresponding IP address, enabling the browser to locate the desired resource. There are dynamic DNS servers and static DNS servers, and you can set them up manually or utilize free dynamic DNS providers.
8.DHCP Server
A DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server is responsible for configuring the network settings of client computers. It dynamically assigns IP addresses to computers within a local area network (LAN). Without a DHCP server, manual configuration of IP addresses would be required for each device on the network.
DHCP servers automate the process of IP address allocation, ensuring efficient network management. They simplify the setup and maintenance of network connections, particularly in large-scale environments.
What Are Servers Used For? Servers serve various purposes in computer networking. They facilitate data provision to users, manage networks, share programs, host databases and web pages, and handle email transfer.
Apart from the aforementioned servers, there are several other types used in computer networking, such as FTP servers, application servers, DHCP servers, and file servers. Each type of server serves specific functions and has its own use cases.
Having a good understanding of server functionality is crucial for individuals working in the tech industry. It allows them to leverage the capabilities of servers effectively in both physical and virtual environments.