Glossary of terms

Server

A server is a computer program or a device that provides a specific kind of service to client software running on the same or other computers. Here’s a detailed definition, main features, and scope of a server:

Definition

A server is a computer system or software designed to provide services to other programs or devices, known as clients, over a network. It acts as a centralized resource for managing network resources, storing and processing data, and facilitating communication between clients.

Main features

1. Centralized resource management: Servers are responsible for managing and allocating resources such as storage, processing power, and network bandwidth to clients. They handle resource allocation efficiently and ensure fair distribution among clients.

2. Data storage and processing: Servers often act as central repositories for storing and processing data. They can store large amounts of data and provide mechanisms for efficient data retrieval, manipulation, and backup.

3. Network services: Servers provide various network services to clients, such as web hosting, email services, file sharing, database management, and application hosting. Clients can access these services over the network using standard protocols.

4. Scalability and reliability: Servers are designed to handle multiple client requests concurrently and can be scaled up or down based on demand. They typically have robust hardware and software configurations to ensure high availability and fault tolerance.

5. Security and access control: Servers implement security measures like authentication, authorization, and encryption to protect data and ensure that only authorized clients can access resources and services.

Scope

1. Web servers: These servers host and deliver web pages, web applications, and other web-based content to clients (web browsers) over the internet or an intranet.

2. File servers: These servers store and manage files and folders, allowing clients to access, modify, and share files over a network.

3. Database servers: These servers manage and provide access to databases, handling data storage, retrieval, and manipulation requests from clients.

4. Application servers: These servers host and run various applications or services, allowing clients to access and utilize these applications remotely.

5. Mail servers: These servers handle email services, such as sending, receiving, and storing emails for clients.

6. Print servers: These servers manage and coordinate print requests from clients, facilitating efficient printing across a network.

7. Game servers: These servers host and manage online multiplayer games, allowing clients (game clients) to connect and play together over a network.

8. Proxy servers: These servers act as intermediaries between clients and other servers, providing services like caching, filtering, and security enhancements.

Servers can be physical hardware devices or virtual machines running on a host operating system. They can be dedicated to a single service or run multiple services simultaneously, depending on their configuration and resource allocation.

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