Computer Server Hardware Explained: A Beginner’s Guide
A server is a computer designed to provide services, applications, storage or data to other computers. Server hardware is built to operate reliably for long periods and support many users at the same time.
What Is a Server?
A server is a computer that provides a service to client devices. A client may be a desktop computer, laptop, phone, application or another server.
File Server
Stores and shares files across a network.
Web Server
Delivers websites and web applications to users.
Database Server
Stores structured information for applications and users.
Virtualisation Server
Runs several virtual machines on one physical system.
Main Server Hardware Components
- Processor: Performs calculations and runs applications.
- Memory: Holds active programs and data.
- Storage: Saves operating systems, applications and files.
- Motherboard: Connects the internal components together.
- Network interface: Connects the server to the network.
- Power supplies: Provide electricity, often with redundancy.
- Cooling system: Removes heat from processors and other components.
- Server chassis: Houses and protects the hardware.
Types of Server
| Type | Description | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Tower server | Looks similar to a desktop tower. | Small businesses and offices. |
| Rack server | Designed to fit into a server rack. | Data centres and server rooms. |
| Blade server | Thin server modules installed into a shared chassis. | High-density data-centre environments. |
| Workstation server | A powerful computer used for specialised workloads. | Engineering, design and media production. |
Choose Hardware for the Workload
Server hardware should be selected according to the workload. A file server, database server and virtualisation host may require very different specifications.
Summary
A server combines processing power, memory, storage, networking, power protection and cooling to provide services reliably to other devices.
