What is a Server? Definition, Function, How it Works, and Types!
In today’s digital era, we often hear the term “server”. Almost every aspect of technology that we use every day, from browsing the internet, sending emails, to playing online games, involves the role of servers . Even so, not everyone understands what a server is , how it works, and the function of a server in a computer network. This article will discuss in depth the meaning of a server , its function, how it works, and the types of servers that are often used.
Understanding Servers
A server is a hardware or software that serves to serve requests from other devices called clients in a network. Servers are usually placed in data centers or in safe places and are designed to handle many requests simultaneously from various clients. Servers can be powerful physical computers and have large capacities to perform heavy tasks in a network, such as data storage, processing, and distribution.
In a broader context, the meaning of server can also refer to software that is tasked with managing data or services needed by users, such as web servers, database servers, and so on. So, a server is a data and service management center that is accessed by client devices such as computers, smartphones, or other devices.
Server Functions
The function of the server is as the heart of a network that is tasked with serving various client device needs. Servers have many crucial functions that make them the backbone of information technology operations. Here are some of the most common server functions :
1. Serving Client Computer Requests
Servers are designed to serve various requests from client devices. For example, when we access a website, the web server will receive a request from our browser, process it, and then send the requested web page data. This is the basic role of the server as a service provider needed by the client.
2. Storing Data or Information
Servers also function as data storage centers. Various companies, organizations, or individuals use servers to store documents, files, databases, and other important information. The use of servers in a network is to allow users to access the data in real-time without having to store it on the client device.
3. Provide a Database to Run
The server is also responsible for providing a database that can be accessed and managed by the client. The database server is responsible for storing, organizing, and managing data in a structured format, which can then be accessed by applications or users on the network.
4. Manage Data or File Transfer Traffic
In a large network, the server plays a role in organizing and managing data traffic. The server is tasked with ensuring that data or files sent from one device to another arrive correctly and efficiently. For example, when we download a file from the internet, the server will send the data to our computer over the network.
5. Protect against criminal attacks
Servers also have a very important security function. Many servers are equipped with security features such as firewalls and data encryption to protect data from threats such as hacking or other cyber attacks. Servers must be able to maintain the integrity and security of data stored or transferred between devices.
How Does a Server Work?
The way a server works is quite simple but involves complex processes behind the scenes. The server and client communicate through network protocols, such as TCP/IP. Here is a general overview of how a server works:
- Client Request : When a client, such as a computer or other device, sends a request for data or services (for example, access to a specific web page or file), this request is sent to the server.
- Server Processing : The server receives the request, processes it, and determines whether the request is valid. If valid, the server retrieves the requested data from storage or another resource.
- Response Delivery : After the data is retrieved or processed, the server sends a response back to the client in a form that the client device can understand, such as a web page, file, or other information.
- Error Handling : If an error occurs during the process, the server is also responsible for sending an error message or notification to the client.
In its operation, the server also performs other tasks such as managing network resources, maintaining security, and ensuring smooth communication processes between devices in the network.
What are the Types of Servers and Their Functions?
There are many types of servers that have specific functions in a network. Each type of server is designed to serve specific tasks according to the needs of the network and the organization that uses it. Here are some of the most commonly used types of servers :
1. Web Server
Web Server is a type of server that functions to serve web page requests from clients, usually browsers. When we type a URL in the browser, the web server will process the request and send the requested web page to the user. Examples of popular web servers are Apache, Nginx, and Microsoft IIS.
2. Mail Server
Mail Server functions to handle sending and receiving emails. When we send an email, the mail server will send the message to the recipient’s mail server which then delivers the message to the destination email address. Examples of mail servers are Microsoft Exchange, Postfix, and Gmail SMTP Server.
3. Application Server
Application Server functions to run applications on a network. Application servers provide an environment where applications can run and be accessed by clients. Examples of application servers are Apache Tomcat and Microsoft .NET.
4. Database Server
Database Server is a server that is specifically used to store, manage, and provide data to clients or applications. Database servers usually function in large networks that require large amounts of data management. Examples of database servers are MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL.
5. FTP Server
FTP Server is used to handle file transfers between clients and servers using File Transfer Protocol (FTP) . This server facilitates the exchange of files in a network, either in an intranet or via the internet. Examples of FTP servers are FileZilla Server and ProFTPD.
6. DHCP Server
DHCP Server (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is responsible for dynamically allocating IP addresses to devices connected to the network. With this server, newly connected devices will automatically get an IP address without having to be manually configured.
7. File Server
File Server provides a place to store data or files that can be accessed by clients in a network. Users can access, change, or share files through the file server . This server is often used in corporate or organizational networks to facilitate file management.
8. Proxy Server
Proxy Server acts as an intermediary between clients and other servers. Proxy servers are useful for securing user identities when they access the internet, as well as speeding up access by caching frequently accessed data. Proxy servers can also be used to block access to certain websites.
9. Streaming Server
Streaming Server provides streaming content services such as video, music, or podcasts to clients. This server is responsible for managing and distributing multimedia content in real-time to users. Examples of streaming servers are Wowza and Red5.
10. Game Server
Game Servers are specifically designed to run and manage online games that are accessed by many players simultaneously. These servers are responsible for ensuring that every player has a smooth and synchronous gaming experience. Examples of game servers are Minecraft servers, CS servers, and Fortnite servers.
11. Fax Server
Fax Server functions to handle sending and receiving facsimiles electronically. This server is usually used by large companies that still require fax services in their operational activities.
12. DNS Server
DNS Server (Domain Name System) is responsible for translating domain names entered by users into IP addresses that can be recognized by computers. For example, when we type in a website name, the DNS server will translate the site name into an IP address so that the browser can access the right server.
Conclusion
Servers play a crucial role in computer networks, both for personal and large organizations. A server is a device that is tasked with serving various requests from clients, storing data, managing data traffic, and maintaining the security of the information exchanged. With various types of servers available, from web servers to DNS servers , each server has a specific function that contributes to the smooth operation of a network.
Without servers , most of the services we enjoy every day, such as the internet, email, and online games, would not function properly. By understanding the meaning of servers , their functions, and how they work, we can better appreciate the importance of the role of servers in the increasingly developing digital world.
References: niagahoster.co.id , dicoding.com , jagoanhosting.com .
Author: Yazid Yusuf – Directorate of Information Technology Center
