When it comes to storing our data, one of the ways to do it is via a server. They are physical entities that allow us to store our virtual data, which is surprisingly important – especially in the business world. You might be surprised to know just how much information we need to keep around – and keep secure – whether we own or work for a company.
You can learn a little more about them and how they work using resources like this one: https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-a-server-definition-lesson-quiz.html. For those that are not very familiar with them at all, though, I will be explaining what they are and what they do! So, make sure you stay around!
What is a Server?
In essence, a server is another computer. However, they are specialized to do a specific role. That role is processing and managing data, along with storing it. Just note that they usually can manage other devices and systems as well, which makes them quite useful.
Most organizations use them as a sort of backbone for their entire virtual systems. That is probably because they offer not just a way to organize, but also continuity, scalability, and efficiency. Obviously, this makes them quite invaluable for most large-scale operations.
What Can One Do?
You might be wondering what their actual functions are, knowing the definition. There are plenty of things that they can bring to the table, of course. For one thing, they can actually help you save some cash. It might seem strange but hear me out: you will have to replace your devices fewer times over the years, as one of these super computers can reduce strain on them.
In a similar vein, they offer a high level of processing power. So, the RAM and CPU specs will improve with the introduction of them. That is part of why so many businesses buy servers, though there are plenty more of course.
Scalability is one of those things. You can increase the number of computers that you have in an office space by using servers to store the large amounts of data. This not only speeds up the current ones you have but they also create space for more to be introduced into the system. This is particularly nice for expanding companies that want to bring in more computing power without needing to get bigger otherwise.
How it Works
There are a few different models in terms of how a server can work. First, it is key to know some important terminology. Ones that power devices that are also on the network are typically called hosts. On the flip side, those devices that are receiving the power from the hosts are called clients.
This model is called the client-server model, which is fairly self-explanatory given my prior definitions. That being said, you can learn more about them on pages such as this one. Some examples of this are email systems, the global internet, and even network printing. As you can see, it is a fairly common model.
Generally speaking, the host can provide a variety of services for the clients. Those clients are typically requesting a specific function, so it becomes an automated system that you have to do little with to change unless something specifically happens. That is another reason why they are quite useful.
If that all sounds a bit technical, think of it like this. A file server functions for files, and a web server functions for web pages. That is really all it means, even if it seems complicated.
Now, in terms of why this model in specific is so popular, there are plenty of reasons. A part of it is how flexible it is. For example, it is not required that a host has more resources than clients. So, almost anything can be a client of a host if they are compatible.
This has become especially useful as more people and businesses hop on the train of wanting to use microcomputers. For example, you could theoretically be a server host on something as small as a smartphone and have a supercomputer be a client. It does not often happen like that, but the option is there.
Are They Worth it?
In most cases for this sort of thing I might say that it is subjective. However, if you are a business owner and want a way to improve your processing power, a computer server is probably the way to go. There are many different kinds out there, so do not feel limited to one specific product.
My advice is to explore your choices and try to pick one that will suit your business needs. There are plenty of different physical types of them, so you can even go with what is easiest for you to store.
