What Is a Server?
a Server — a computer (or software) that provides services or resources to other computers (clients) over a network — hosting websites, files, email, databases and applications.
How it works
A server runs continuously, waiting for and responding to client requests. A web server returns web pages; a file server stores shared files; a DNS server resolves names. Physically, servers are robust computers (often in data centres) with redundant power, storage and networking for reliability. The client-server model underpins most networked applications.
Why it matters
Servers are what networks connect clients to — understanding the client-server model, and that servers typically use static IPs so clients can reliably find them, is foundational. Server networking (placement, redundancy, security) is core to network design.
Frequently asked questions
What is a server?
A computer or software that provides services or resources — like websites, files or email — to client devices over a network.
What is the client-server model?
An architecture where clients request services and servers provide them — the foundation of most networked applications, from web browsing to email.
Why do servers use static IP addresses?
So clients and DNS records can reliably locate them at a consistent address — a changing server IP would break connections.
Related articles
Want hands-on training?
Learn this on real Cisco lab devices with placement support at Attila Technologies, Ahmedabad.