This article explains the key features of server and clearly shows us a step-by-step breakdown of how server works how server works.
INTRODUCTION
The term ‘server’ has a double meaning in IT. It is used to describe a computer that makes resources available over a network, as well as the program that runs on this computer. This concept makes it possible to divide tasks among different computers and allow users simultaneous access. the only way to ensure that clients, like web browsers or e-mail programs, always have the opportunity to access the server and utilize its service when needed, there has to be a server (software) which is permanently on standby.
Key Features of Server
Servers are very important to organizations because they enhance the capabilities of a network by offering essential features ensuring that organizations can function smoothly, efficiently, and securely in today’s digital age. The key features of server are as follows:
Reliability: Servers ensure that critical computing systems are always available and online, ensuring zero downtime for businesses. When any network device or component fails, it can impact the company’s business.
Safeguard from cyberattacks: This includes hardware-based security measures, firewalls, and regular software updates. Moreover, centralized systems allow easier monitoring, timely vulnerability assessments, and swift deployment of security patches. Enhanced protection of sensitive data thereby assuring business and user data integrity.
Better collaboration: Servers drive collaboration because professionals and computers can easily access shared network resources, computer programs, and devices.
High processing power: Servers provide high processing power to underlying clients as the available compute resources add up in the client-server framework. As a result, networks can handle an increasing number of jobs without impacting performance.
Cost savings: By centralizing resources and services, businesses can cut down on maintenance costs, reduce the need for multiple software licenses, decrease energy consumption, Reduced overheads in IT management and Energy efficiency especially with modern server designs.
There are a number of web servers available, including the following: Lighttpd, Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS for Windows Server), Nginx and Apache HTTP Server.
Read: An overview of server structure, its components and types
How Server Works
Server services operating via computer networks are made possible through client server-models. This concept makes it possible to divide tasks among different computers and allow users simultaneous access. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how server works. When a user’s device needs a file that’s hosted on a web server, it initiates the request via a web browser, such as Google Chrome or Firefox. The process begins with the web browser dividing the URL into three parts:
Hypertext transfer protocol: The first part is the hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP or HTTPS), which acts as a communication pathway for servers and browsers to talk to each other.
Domain name server (DNS): The second part of the URL relates to the server’s name. Here, a domain name server (DNS) translates the domain name into the server’s IP address that hosts the requested website.
File name: The final part encapsulates files that include HTML, CSS, fonts, images, graphics, and many other ingredients that make u