What Exactly Is A Server?

Many people are under the misconception that a server is no different from a typical desktop PC. This couldn't be further from the truth. While almost any PC:

Meets the minimum hardware requirements can run the server operating system, that doesn't make it a true server.
Even if the desktop had similar processor speeds, memory and storage capacity, it still isn't a replacement for a real server.

The technologies behind a server and a desktop are engineered for different purposes.

SERVER - is engineered to manage, store, send and process data, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 356 days a year.
DESKTOP - is optimized to run a user-friendly operating system, desktop applications, and facilitate other desktop oriented tasks.

For these reasons, servers need to be far more reliable than their desktop counterparts. In order to accomplish this, servers offer a variety of features not typically found in a desktop PC. Some servers will include:

- Duel processors; either equipped or capable

- Redundant hard drives or power supplies

- Hot swappable components

- Are scalable; to meet current, as well as future needs

- Can process data faster and more efficiently

Key Server Benefits

1. File and Network security

2. Increased reliability

3. Centralized data storage and shared resources

4. Virus Management

5. Centralized Backup

6. Expandability

7. Versatility

Key Server Benefits Explained:

#1 File and Network security

The most important role of a file server is the network security it provides. By creating individual user and group accounts, rights can be assigned to the data stored on the network preventing unauthorized users from accessing materials they shouldn't be viewing.

For example, the sales team doesn’t need access to employee personal records which should only be accessible by HR.

#2 Increased reliability; decreased workflow interruptions

Many servers are equipped with redundant power supplies. With a secondary power supply running in tandem, the loss of one of the power supplies doesn't affect normal system operations. The same goes for a server's storage system. Unlike an average desktop PC that uses a single hard drive, a server will typically use multiple hard drives working in a RAID configuration to prevent data loss or an interruption in workflow. In addition, many servers are also equipped with hot swappable hard drives and power supplies. These hot swappable components allow you to replace faulty hardware without interrupting the entire office. In addition, since all employee data is being stored on the network, if a user's workstation fails mid-workday, employees can access the same files from another workstation.

#3 Centralized data storage and shared resources

With a network server, all of the users on the network can make use of various network resources right from their desks, increasing efficiently. Some of these resources include the following:

- Centralized data storage (RAID Array)

- Network Attached Storage (NAS) Devices

- CD/DVD Towers

- Printers and Fax servers

#4 Virus Management

One of the greatest threats to your network is the possibility of infection from viruses, spyware and spam. So having good, updated, anti-virus software installed on your systems is a necessity. In an office of 10 people or less, systems can be maintained individually. Anything more than that, though, can become a real burden. In those circumstances, an anti-virus package that combines workstation and server virus protection into a single solution makes more sense.

#5 Centralized Backup

All businesses should backup their data on a regular basis. By having all of your company and employee data stored in one location, backups can be performed reliably and quickly. So you'll never need to worry about what data is stored on what workstation as you do in a peer-to-peer network. Today, almost any media type can be used for backup purposes. In addition to the traditional tape drive, CDs, DVDs, removal storage and even Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices are acceptable. Your choice of media will depend on your specific backup requirements. Depending on your budget and your data retention needs, any of these would be an acceptable solution. Make sure you have at least a scheduled weekly backup, although a daily would be better.

# 6 Expandability

While workgroups do not have a physical size limitation (technically), their features preclude their use in large networks. A workgroup with hundreds of computers is would require as many logins set up on every machine. This method would also require an administrator to perform permission setup on each computer. Because domains centralize these features, the administrator can new computers to a domain with minimal effort.

# 7 Versatility

Servers can be used for a myriad of workload specific purposes due to their hardware durability, reliability, power and flexibility. This allows the server to be adjusted on-the-fly to accommodate evolving workload demands and have the ability to grow within the confines of a given platform or architecture, without forcing you to overprovision.

Difference Between Workgroup and Domain:

1. Workgroups are fitted for smaller networks while Domains are used in large scale deployments like in medium and big businesses

2. Workgroups are easy to implement while domains are harder and takes longer to implement

3. The control in a domain is centralized to the Server (domain controller) which is safer while workgroups do not have this level of protection

4. Domains are very scalable while increasing the number of computers and users in a workgroup could be a lot of work

a. Workgroup peer-servers can only accept a maximum of 10 concurrent connections simultaneously.

5. You can assign resources to certain accounts in domains but not in workgroups