A server is a high—performance computer that ensures the operation of an information network by working with data and managing devices and systems. The name itself comes from the English verb “to serve” — “to serve”.
Servers allow for the instantaneous exchange of device information with each other through networks — virtual associations of several computers. It is thanks to the work of the servers that it is possible to connect to the network, upload data to the cloud and share files.
What does the server do?
Servers perform the function of managing network resources and cope with complex calculations. As their main functions, it is customary to single out:
- providing fast and powerful computing processes to handle network load;
- reliable availability of systems that are of critical importance;
- flexible scaling when workload volumes change;
- fast and stable connection between users;
- the ability to reduce the load on network devices.
The Client—Server Model
The Client—Server model refers to a situation in which one server responds to requests from several clients — devices from which requests were sent. In order to avoid overloads, in some cases, clients are redistributed across different physical servers that perform the same functions.