Servers

Server provides requested service to the client. Server and client are the two important components of a network. Some examples of servers are mail server, fax server, web server, database server, directory services server, file server, print server, application server, transaction server and groupware server. Mail server is a machine which is used to manage the flow of electronic mail (e-mail), messaging and communication with main frame systems on large-scale networks. For sending and receiving faxes through a single network connection, fax servers are used. Web servers are used for storing and retrieving internet data. Database server is used for providing data to clients on request. Directory services server is used when data is stored in multiple servers. A file server stores all the files. Print servers are used for the control of printers. For accessing centralized application software, application server is used. The data and remote procedures are embedded in transaction server. Groupware server facilitates people to people contact. Some important principles behind client/server systems are hardware and software independence, open access to services, process distribution and standards.