What is a server? According to the original definition, it is an application/program that provides some services to other users, also in other locations. When we have a printer connected to a single computer A and we want to print a file from another location, on computer A we perform (among others in Windows systems) the printer sharing procedure. At this point, our computer acts as a print server for other computers in the house.
In everyday speech, a server is understood as a computer with a dedicated operating system on which various programs are installed. The most popular are WWW servers, database servers, file servers, etc.
Such a computer can also be a corporate firewall, additionally securing the interior of the organization's IT network.
How is a server different from an average computer? Nothing at all, because any computer can become a server. However, in the case of dedicated servers, we distinguish several features that distinguish servers from ordinary desktops.
First of all, the computer case. Most professional servers are distinguished by a case that allows such computers to be placed in dedicated racks in the RACK standard. The advantage of this solution is the possibility of closing the entire infrastructure in one place (servers, UPS power supply, switches, routers, network sockets, etc.). Server housings are distinguished by their height - 1U, 2U, 4U, etc.).
In such computers, certain safeguards are introduced at the design stage: a larger number of fans than in the "tower" housing, a more efficient power supply allowing for simultaneous connection of power from two sources. The advantage of using a dedicated server solution is also that it is adapted to continuous operation. From the aforementioned power supply, through more efficient RAM, to motherboards. Can You imagine a website open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., because that's when Your store is open? Additionally, server motherboards are designed slightly differently. While graphics are important in the case of workstations, the speed of information processing is important in servers.
However, if You do not have the conditions, and You would like to have a well-thought-out server "from the real thing", there is nothing to stop You from placing the server "blocks" in a regular housing that You can put under Your desk (if You are able to get used to the sound of fans 24/7.
The next question that may pop into Your head is as follows: how many physical servers does my organization need? After all, each of them must be purchased, special software must be installed on it, and at the same time bills for electricity, internet, etc. must be paid for the whole year. At this point, I will answer You in a surprising way. At least two. One, which will be Your main server (it can even be a second-hand computer), which will serve as a security for Your company network - the so-called "firewall" and the actual server, meeting all the above-mentioned server properties. On Your network gateway, You declare which services should be accessed from the Internet, You can also indicate which IP addresses are to be considered safe (e.g. Your home IP address), to which You will grant full access.
I encourage You to read the content on our website so that You can make a more informed choice.