Server Computer: Definition, Function, Components, and Types

Every day, countless people use computers. Whether it’s for work, doing school assignments, playing, doing business, or seeking entertainment. Do you already know how computers work, connect to the internet, and share data? Here we will discuss in detail about server computers and their relation to server monitoring.

What is a Server Computer?

A server is a system, whether hardware or software, that provides resources, data, services, or programs to a computer (referred to as a client) over a network. The server is the heart of computer operations.

For relatively large companies, they generally operate several data centers themselves. Such companies usually have rooms filled with servers, which serve to support their business operations.

Why is a Server Computer Needed?

Modern companies require a centralized data storage location. Technically, any computer can become a server if prepared in the right way. However, if you run a business with many employees and everyone uses computers, a dedicated server is needed to handle the IT needs of the business.

Some important reasons why a server computer is necessary in a business certainly include data backup maintenance. In addition, it is also needed for domain-specific email hosting, enabling remote access through a Virtual Private Network (VPN), and controlling permissions.

Server Components

A computer server is not a standalone device; rather, it requires several components to function as a whole. Here are the components of a server computer:

• Motherboard: a circuit board that distributes electricity and connects all other server components. Motherboard also facilitates communication between all components.
• Central Processing Unit (CPU): the control center of the server. The CPU executes instructions given by the hardware and software of the devices used.
• Memory: available storage space. The CPU includes Random Access Memory (RAM), which is temporary storage. RAM only stores data while the device is connected to power. For permanent storage, a hard drive is required.
• Hard drive: hardware included in every computer and server. The hard drive stores data permanently, even when power is not supplied to the computer.
• Network connection: every server requires a network connection to function. To do this, the server has a Network Interface Card (NIC) and one or more physical ports. The NIC enables communication between computers connected via LAN and IP.
• Power supply: all servers need to be connected to power. Most computer servers require a power supply of 300 watts or more.
• Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): presents graphics and video. Initially, GPUs were used for gaming, but now they are commonly used for other needs due to their computational power.

Knowing the components of a server computer and how they work is an important part of every business operation. Server monitoring, which must be done regularly, is an important task to ensure the server runs smoothly.

Type of Server

Here are some of the most common types of servers:

1. Web Server

A web server is a computer or software that provides web content to its users via the internet. This server stores and processes requests from browsers to display web pages, images, videos, and other types of content.

2. Proxy Server 

The proxy server connects the host server and the client server. After the data from the website passes through the proxy server, it is sent to the user’s computer IP address. Because the information is requested and then transferred from the source to the proxy server, rather than directly from the client to another user, this method adds an extra layer of protection.

3. Virtual Machine (VM)

Data is connected and stored by the virtual machine through virtual space. The IT team uses software called a hypervisor, or virtual machine monitor (VMM), to build VMs. Hypervisor can run hundreds of VMs on a single hardware. Many companies understand that VMs are the most economical type of server to operate.

4. Application Server

The application server uses a virtual server connection to link clients to the software application. This allows users to access the application without having to download data onto their hardware. Application servers are very suitable for use by companies because they can accommodate large amounts of application data for many users, making them more efficient.

5. Domain Name System (DNS) Server

Every time a user types a domain name into the address bar in a search engine, the DNS server determines the correct IP address. Devices are directed to the correct location to access the site’s data through the website’s IP address.

6. Print Server

As the name suggests, a print server connects remotely to a local computer so that users can print comfortably from their desks.

7. File Transfer Protocol (FTP) Server

File transfer between computers is done through an FTP server. While the downloaded file is extracted to the device from the server, the uploaded file moves from the computer to the server. The term “file transfer protocol” also describes the process of securely connecting two computers through a server to exchange data.

8. Dynamic Host Communication Protocol (DHCP) Server

It is a computer system that dynamically allocates IP addresses to clients. Because this server can handle multiple client requests simultaneously, the DHCP server is crucial for network administration.

9. File Server

A file server is a machine that offers a disk that can be shared, accessible by users on a business network. Usually, a file server is used only for storage.

10. Mail Server

By using an email service platform, the mail server stores and distributes it for users. Mail server is configured to automatically connect to the network, so individual users do not need to run any software to access their email.

Choosing the Right Server

When choosing the right type of server computer for your business, make sure the server can accommodate your business needs. But, a server that far exceeds the company’s requirements and standards is also unnecessary, as it will only waste costs.

Here are some things to consider when choosing the right server:

• Server requirements: what kind of server does your business need? Research the server specifications based on the applications you want to run.
• Physical type: choose between tower server, rack, and blade.
• Location and maintenance: where will the server be placed? What kind of maintenance is required?
• Budget: how much does it cost to set up a server? This calculation must include maintenance costs.

Server computers play a very important role in every modern business that is inseparable from technology. Use the right server and ensure it is continuously monitored using a reliable monitoring service, Netmonk. Trusted by hundreds of companies in Indonesia, visit the website for complete information about Netmonk‘s services!