What Is a Server?

The answer to "what is a server" varies depending on what type of server you're discussing. Servers take many incarnations, and you've got several options if you're considering server solutions.

Server, simplified.
Many different types of servers exist to serve different needs. No matter what kind of server you're discussing, at its core, a server is a computer whose sole reason for existing is to provide resources or services to other computers. Servers are dedicated computers that serve a specific purpose, depending on your needs. In some cases, servers don't even have a monitor or other normal computer peripherals, and they may even be installed in a rack with other servers. Servers don't necessarily look like other computers.

You might have a computer specifically designated as a Web server. You might have a print server. You might have a file server or a mail server. The common element is that a server is generally a stand-alone computer that isn't in regular use, and its only purpose is to provide services to other computers.

Network servers.
A network server is fairly self-explanatory; it's simply a server connected to a network. Network servers typically function as file servers; hosting files or programs so that other computers on the network can browse to a single location to access them. Network servers may have different operating systems or protocols that enable them to function well in network applications.

Hosted server.
A hosted server is a server that you pay someone else to maintain. A hosted server may be a good option if you don't want to build an IT infrastructure in-house and want to save money on hardware, maintenance and personnel costs. For small businesses, hosted servers are great options to save cash and still get server applications. When you're considering hosted servers, though, make sure you know the jargon and understand what you're getting. Uptime is important, as is 24-hour technical support.

Dedicated or shared servers.
When you're looking into server solutions, if you're considering a hosted server, two phrases you'll see are "dedicated server" or "shared server." A dedicated server is a computer designated specifically for your use. A shared server is a computer whose resources you share with other people. Shared servers are sufficient for many purposes, including personal Web sites or mail hosting. A dedicated server, on the other hand, is good for applications that use a lot of bandwidth or require extra security.

Finding the right server solutions.
Your specific needs dictate the right server solution. If you're a small business looking for a file server, you might be able to re-purpose an old computer that has become outdated. With the help of an IT consultant that you can hire on an hourly basis, you can configure a file server and have it up and running with a minimum of fuss.

On the other end of the spectrum, you could be a large corporation that requires an extensive IT infrastructure to support multiple in-house servers. These server solutions typically include dedicated hardware, multi-person IT departments and industry-specific software and operating procedures. Most people fall somewhere in between, so determine your needs, and do some research to find the right server solution.