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A server is software or hardware that provides services to other software and hardware. The following are common examples.Web ServersThe internet is based on web servers that respond to requests from clients such as web browsers.
A server that provides services to applications such as a mobile app. For example, a weather app on your phone might contect to a server for weather data.Communications ServerServers that provide clients with network connectivity and other communications such as voice. For example, a telecommunications device that provides 3G or WiFi to phones and other clients.
Name ServersServers that look up addresses such as mapping a domain name to an IP. This is basic infrastructure for networks such as the internet.Directory ServiceServers that look up resources on a network such as users, groups and devices. Acts as infrastructure that is essential to network security such as authenticating users.
A server that implements functionality for other software by offering an API.Database ServerProvides access to a database.File Server Provides access to files.Game ServerServers that implement games or services for a game such as social elements of gameplay.Media ServerDelivers media such as streaming video or audio.
Acts as an intermediary between clients and servers to implement functions such as security, monitoring or anonymization.System ServicesA system is software that performs automation, calculations and other functions that aren't directly used by people. They are often implemented with a services that run on servers such as microservices.|
| Type | | | Definition | Software or hardware that provides services to other software and hardware. | | Notes | Servers are almost always software based. It is common to refer to hardware that primarily runs server software as a "server."A single hardware device might run a large number of servers and clients. Many devices run servers including end-point devices such as a phone.Servers may be designed to provide local services for a device as opposed to offering services to remote devices. | | Related Concepts | |
Computing
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