Servers are computer systems designed to provide specialized functions in computing environments. They can serve as hardware-based servers or as software-based servers. In Turkish, the term 'sunucu' is used. Applications and devices that receive services from servers are called clients. Servers operate in a client-server architecture, where data is exchanged between the server and client. They can be used for various purposes, such as database servers, file servers, and web servers.

What is a Server?

A server is a system that provides services to users and organizations through computer networks. Servers store, organize, and share data with users who have appropriate access. They are generally used to address specific business needs and have the following characteristics:

• Servers resemble personal computers but are tailored for business or specific user requirements.
• They require hardware to operate.
• Servers are intended to run continuously.
• They prioritize performance and efficiency.
• Servers are usually housed in specialized facilities.
• Due to constant operation, additional cooling is often needed.
• Permissions can be set for users.
• Servers are maintained by experts with roles like 'admin,' 'administrator,' or 'root.'

What Does a Server Do?

Servers help meet the business needs of organizations. For example, a company may need a dedicated server for email services. A server structured for email functions serves this purpose, rather than a regular office computer. Servers can also meet individual needs.

General solutions provided by server systems include:

• Servers allow you to share files.
• You can host a website on a server.
• Servers can securely store company-specific data.
• Employees can access corporate applications remotely.
• Servers can serve as backup solutions.

How Does a Server Work?

A server operates by communicating with clients through specific protocols on the same network. The client sends a request to the server, which receives it through a suitable protocol. The server then responds to the client in a similar manner. This creates a communication loop between the client and the server. Common protocols used by servers include:

• HTTP: A protocol for viewing web pages.
• FTP: A file transfer protocol.
• SMTP: A protocol for sending emails.
• DNS: A domain name resolution protocol.

Types of Servers

Server types are categorized based on their functions. Common types include web servers, email servers, and file servers. They can also vary based on the operating system, such as Windows or Linux servers.

Web Server

Web servers host websites and web applications. They store web pages and contain specialized software to enable their functions. Popular web server software includes Apache, Nginx, LiteSpeed, and Microsoft IIS.

FTP Server

FTP servers facilitate file sharing. They run FTP services and are accessed through the FTP protocol. Clients can connect via file management applications or dedicated FTP software like FileZilla. Access usually requires a username and password.

Mail Server

Mail servers handle email functions. They run email services to send and receive emails. They can also be configured for address books, calendars, and tasks. While there are commonly used email services like Gmail and Hotmail, there are also privately managed mail server services.