What is a Network Server and the Importance of Using Server Monitoring

Network servers are needed in the midst of the digital era and fast-growing technology. In addition, server monitoring is also needed to maintain security. In this article we will discuss how a network server works and why server monitoring is important.

What is a Network Server?

A network server is a computer engineered to manage network resources and provide services to other computers, commonly referred to as clients, in organizing a network. Unlike a regular workstation, a network server is dedicated to handling various network tasks. For example, data storage, email processing, application hosting, and many more.

Network servers can be used for small business needs to very large cloud-based infrastructures. Network servers are essential for serving info smoothly. Network servers are able to enable centralization of data and applications, making them easier to manage, maintain, and also secure from the risk of malicious attacks in cyberspace.

How Does a Network Server Work?

A network server functions as the central hub in a computer network, managing communication and data exchange between different devices. To better understand it, here’s how a network server works in detail:

Receiving Requests

Network servers are constantly listening for requests from client computers. These requests take a variety of forms. Some ask for access to certain documents, some want to run programs, receive emails, and many more. The server’s most important task is to respond to each request responsively.

Processing and Responding

After receiving a request, the network server will process it based on the order and resources available. For example, a request to open a web page will be handled differently from a request to access a database. The network server uses hardware and software resources to fulfill all requests. The server then sends back the required data and confirms that the client’s request has been completed.

Managing Resources

Network servers are tasked with efficiently managing and allocating resources. This task includes handling multiple requests at once, prioritizing which tasks should be done first, and ensuring optimal use of hardware, such as processing memory and power.

Network Management

Network servers also play a very important role in organizing the network itself. These tasks include assigning IP addresses, managing network traffic, ensuring data integrity, and maintaining network security protocols.

Provides Different Types of Services

Network servers can have specific specifications regarding their services. For example, a web server is responsible for hosting websites. While file servers are responsible for organizing documents and data. Other types of servers have different tasks as well.

Why is Server Monitoring Important?

Servers are a very important component in a network. Servers are tasked with authentication, authorization, security, network functionality, storing data, and providing a platform for running applications. The health and security of the network greatly affects business productivity.

To keep sensitive data safe, server monitoring is required. By monitoring the server, the administrator can keep track:

• Accessibility: ensuring that clients can connect to the server and use the resources they need.
• CPU and memory usage: ensuring the server has enough CPU power and RAM to process client requests.
• Performance: if the server doesn’t respond quickly, it can cause lagging at critical times. The response time will also be longer.
• Low storage capacity: the server that stores data must always be monitored because there must be a time when there is little or no space left.
• Processing: in processing, some things fail and some things succeed. If something fails during a server reboot, then the server will fail to perform the requested function.
• Security: monitors authentication attempts, both failed and successful, so as to alert administrators to risky dangers.

Keep servers secure with Netmonk Prime, Indonesia’s network monitoring application provider. Use one application for all company monitoring needs. Use its Server Monitoring module which is not only proactive, but also preventive against various risks. Just try the Netmonk Prime service right now!

Reference:

What Is a Network Server and How Does It Work? | ServerWatch