A server is a computing device in physical form whose purpose is to provide a range of services to users. They are generally indispensable for businesses.
There are many different types of servers, each with different goals and modes of operation. In all cases, maintenance is essential and should be performed by a competent professional. Don’t hesitate to hire a server maintenance professional on Codeur.com!
Here we review the main types of servers and how they work.
What is a server?
A server is a powerful computing tool that gives connected computers easier access to the web through file sharing, and it also securely stores data.
It connects computers on a network, as well as company printers, and ensures the smooth running of online sales platforms and networked work. It is also an effective tool for managing email.
You can understand a server in two ways: hardware and software.
Hardware servers are also called physical servers. They consist of a chassis or a very high-performance hard drive that is installed on the networked computer and greatly increases its power. Their role is to connect computers and networked software to enable internal information exchange. This unit also stores and processes saved data.
A software server takes the form of a program. It can be used on one or several computers depending on how it is used.
Its main role is to distribute the tasks assigned to the computer on which it is installed. There are three types of software servers: system software, programming software, and application software.
The main types of servers and how they work.
A server operates using its own security system designed to strengthen the protection of your company’s data. It runs continuously, allowing your employees to work on their computers whenever they want, except during update periods or when the provider intervenes for system maintenance.
Thanks to this, each employee works within a protected network no matter where they are. The server executes its tasks autonomously according to the protocols previously configured. For added security, it can be useful to appoint a network administrator who will handle maintenance and give you access to the data stored on the server if needed. This person will also protect your server from security vulnerabilities and keep it in good condition.
There are, however, several types of servers, each with its own characteristics. Here is a brief overview.
How does a DNS server work?
The DNS server stands for Domain Name System. Its role is to translate website domain names into IP addresses.
It necessarily operates on a network. It is set up to easily identify different websites and functions like a directory, assigning each website an IP address that is then recorded by the server for protection and for identifying actions performed on a computer. These mappings between domain name and IP address are called "DNS records."
How does an FTP server work?
The FTP server is a tool that allows sending and retrieving files from another server. Its full name is File Transfer Protocol. It works by establishing two separate connections between a client computer and the server: one connection for file commands and one connection that authorizes file transfer. Once these connections are established, the client computer can download the files it wants from the server or upload files to the selected server.
Often, the FTP server operates without encryption, which results in a low level of security and data protection. This is the main criticism leveled at FTP servers. However, in the context of hosting a website, the FTP server is mainly used to store the files that allow the site to be displayed at its assigned URL.
The risks are therefore not as great if the FTP server is paired with another, more secure type of server that will ensure the confidentiality of your users' data.
How does a web server work?
The web server is a tool that stores the data that allow your website to function once it is online. It can be static or dynamic, depending on your needs and capabilities.
A static web server consists of a computer and an HTTP server, which takes the form of software. The static web server transfers the hosted files to the client without modifying them.
A dynamic web server includes additional software components, such as an application server and a database. The server is dynamic because, unlike a static web server, the hosted files are updated by the application server before being served by the HTTP server.
The web server must therefore host the elements that allow a website to operate correctly once it's live. These elements include HTML documents, images, JavaScript files, videos, and font files...
The web server is always running and always connected to the Internet, which allows your site to operate 24 hours a day. When you want to connect to your website, the browser you use sends a request to the web server that hosts your files. The server then processes the request, reads the file, updates it if it is dynamic, and transfers it to the browser.
How does a file server work?
The file server enables the centralization of common files and access to them by all authorized users. Often, these servers are installed by companies that work on a network and need an online workspace. Collaborators can then work without issue on shared files and folders, either directly via the server or using business applications.
The file server is relatively secure, since only collaborators authorized by the system administrator have access. Additionally, users must authenticate before accessing shared files and folders, which further strengthens data protection.
The file server can be supplemented by an authorization structure that allows each user to read, modify, or create files according to the permissions granted to them. It is also possible to store individual or more specific folders on the file server that are accessible only to a particular category of collaborators.
The file server most often operates over a local network, also called a LAN. It is part of the operating system of the computers in your fleet and enables group work and peer collaboration. It is essential in businesses to allow efficient handling of files. To function optimally, the file server must be regularly administered and storage must be managed to improve efficiency.
Collaborators who are not on site can use the file server by connecting to the company network via a VPN, which extends the corporate network to the collaborators' local network.
How does a Proxy server work?
A proxy server is an intermediary between the web and your computer. It helps ensure the security and privacy of data shared and received, at different levels determined by the way you use the web, your collaborators' needs, or company policy.
Concretely, the proxy server handles internet traffic before passing it on to you, and vice versa. It acts as a firewall and web filter to protect you from malware and potential security vulnerabilities. A proxy can also create shared network connections and cache data so your requests are processed faster. It is therefore a rather effective safety net.
Our tip for choosing the server adapted to your needs.
The servers you might need depend on your requirements as a company or a freelancer. They should be chosen for their efficiency and to fit the IT tools you use daily.
When creating your website, sharing your files, or securing your network, it can be useful to choose an effective combination of servers.
To get help with this process, choose to trust one of the freelancers who collaborate on Codeur.com and enjoy a quality turnkey service.
