Server

What are Servers? Cornerstones of Internet Infrastructure

Serverto other computers or devices on a network (clients known as) is a specialized computer that provides resources, data, and services. Servers host websites, manage databases, and process requests from users, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery of content. Servers form the basis of most information exchange on the Internet.

Basic Functions of Servers:

• Web Servers: It stores the files of websites (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, etc.) and offers these files upon requests from users' browsers. Software such as Apache, Nginx are common web server software.
• Database Servers: It stores and manages the data used by applications or websites (user information, product inventory, blog posts, etc.). Databases such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB run on these servers.
• Email Servers: Manages sending, receiving, and storing emails.
• File Servers: It allows users to store and share files.
• Application Servers: It executes the business logic necessary for the operation of a particular application and responds to client requests.

Why are servers important?

• Data Storage: It is where all information on the Internet, from websites to emails, is stored.
• Sourcing: It provides the information and services that clients (computers, smartphones, etc.) need.
• Accessibility: It ensures that websites and online services are accessible 24/7.
• Reliability: It is designed to ensure that data is secure and continuously available.

Example:

When you visit a website, your browser is stored in a website where the website files are stored to the server sends a request. The server sends those files to your browser in response to this request, so you can view the website. For example, when you visit an online store, the server hosts images of the website, product data, and payment processing systems. Each click sends a request to a background server, and the server sends the relevant information back to you.