Server
A server is a dedicated computer that continuously processes requests from other devices over a network and provides them with computing resources, data and services. Unlike an ordinary PC, it is designed for round-the-clock operation, high load and fault tolerance.
A server is a dedicated computer that continuously processes requests from other devices over a network and provides them with computing resources, data and services. Unlike an ordinary PC, it is designed for round-the-clock operation, high load and minimized downtime, which is why it is the core of any IT infrastructure — from a small office to a data center.
What is a server
A server is a hardware-software complex that stores data and performs tasks for many clients at the same time: computers, laptops, smartphones or other servers. Clients send it requests over the network, and the server responds to them — for example, it delivers a website page, receives mail, launches an application or saves a file to a database. The “client — server” principle underlies web servers, database management systems, email, video conferencing services and corporate systems. One server can serve thousands of users at once, so special requirements are placed on its reliability, performance and security.
How a server is arranged
By design, a server resembles an ordinary computer, but uses more reliable and productive components. The main elements:
- Processor (CPU) — performs computations; servers are equipped with one or several high-performance processors (Intel Xeon, AMD EPYC, domestic “Elbrus” and “Baikal”).
- RAM — server memory with ECC error correction, the capacity can reach hundreds of gigabytes.
- Storage drives — fast NVMe SSDs and high-capacity HDDs combined into RAID arrays to protect against data loss.
- Network controllers — from two or more 10/25/40 GbE network ports to receive intensive traffic.
- Power supplies — usually two redundant units (1+1) with hot-swap support.
- Chassis — rack-mount (1U–4U), tower or blade chassis for installation in a server rack.
To store large amounts of data, servers are connected to storage systems (SAN), and virtualization is used to run several isolated environments.
Types of servers
Servers are classified by design and purpose. By design: tower (Tower) — compact for small businesses; rack-mount (Rack) — mounted in a server rack, the most common option for data centers; blade servers — dense boards in a common chassis with shared cooling and power. By function: file server (storing and sharing files), web server, mail server, database server, application server, proxy server, print server. In large systems, several servers are combined into a cluster for load distribution and fault tolerance.
How to choose a server
When choosing a server, the volume and growth rate of the load, fault tolerance requirements, budget and placement conditions are assessed. For a small office of 10–50 users, a tower server with one processor, 32–64 GB of memory and a RAID array is enough. For medium businesses, 1U–2U rack servers with redundant power are suitable. For data centers, servers with hot-swap components, several network connectors and a service contract with fast parts replacement are chosen. Compatibility with the OS is assessed separately: for critical facilities, domestic software and domestic hardware platforms included in the registry of domestic software are recommended.
Frequently asked questions
What is a server in simple words?
A server is a dedicated computer that constantly runs and processes requests from other devices: computers, laptops, smartphones. It stores data, launches applications and distributes them to users over the network. For example, when you open a website, the browser sends a request to the web server, and it returns the page. A server differs from an ordinary PC in higher reliability, performance and the ability to work around the clock.
How does a server differ from an ordinary computer?
A server is designed for continuous operation under high load and servicing multiple users at the same time. It uses server processors, memory with error correction (ECC), redundant power supplies and disk arrays that protect data from loss. A server usually has no monitor or keyboard — it is managed remotely, and its components are often hot-swappable without stopping operation.
What types of servers exist?
By design: tower (Tower), rack-mount (Rack, installed in a server rack) and blade servers (dense boards in a common chassis). By purpose: file, web, mail, database and application servers, proxy and print servers. In large systems, servers are combined into clusters for load distribution and fault tolerance.
Why does a company need a server?
A server allows corporate data to be stored centrally, organizes shared access to files and databases, deploys internal systems (1C, mail, document flow) and provides secure remote access for employees. This is more reliable and convenient than storing data on separate computers, and a server also simplifies backup and information security management.
How to choose a server for an office?
Assess the number of users and programs, the load and growth plans. For 10–50 users, one server with a single processor, 32–64 GB of RAM, two network ports and a RAID array of several disks is enough. Be sure to provide an uninterruptible power supply and backup. A reliable choice is a 1U–2U rack server with redundant power supplies in a server rack.
What is server infrastructure?
Server infrastructure is a set of servers, storage systems, network equipment and software that ensure the operation of a company's information systems. It includes virtualization, clustering, backup and monitoring. For critical systems, servers are placed in data centers with guaranteed power supply and cooling.
How much does a server and its maintenance cost?
The cost depends on the class: a server for a small office costs from 100 to 300 thousand rubles, for a medium business — from 300 thousand to 1 million, high-performance rack and blade servers for data centers — from 1 million. OS and DBMS licenses, electricity, maintenance and technical support are added to the expenses. For the public sector, it is important to take into account import substitution and certification requirements.
Where to place a server: at home or in a data center?
One or two small-business servers are usually placed in a server room or a telecommunications cabinet with air conditioning and uninterruptible power. For medium and large businesses, placement in a data center is more profitable: power supply, cooling, secure access, communication channels and maintenance are provided there. Placement in a data center reduces the risks of downtime and relieves the company's IT department.
Other terms in «Infrastructure»
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Server
A server is a dedicated computer that continuously processes requests from other devices over a network and provides them with computing resources, data and services. Unlike an ordinary PC, it is designed for round-the-clock operation, high load and fault tolerance.
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