Server (computing) - Types of Servers

Types of Servers

In a general network environment the following types of servers may be found.

• Application server, a server dedicated to running certain software applications
• Catalog server, a central search point for information across a distributed network
• Communications server, carrier-grade computing platform for communications networks
• Compute server, a server intended for intensive (esp. scientific) computations
• Database server, provides database services to other computer programs or computers
• Fax server, provides fax services for clients
• File server, provides remote access to files
• Game server, a server that video game clients connect to in order to play online together
• Home server, a server for the home
• Name server or DNS
• Print server, provides printer services
• Proxy server, acts as an intermediary for requests from clients seeking resources from other servers
• Sound server, provides multimedia broadcasting, streaming.
• Standalone server, an emulator for client–server (web-based) programs
• Web server, a server that HTTP clients connect to in order to send commands and receive responses along with data contents

Almost the entire structure of the Internet is based upon a client–server model. High-level root nameservers, DNS, and routers direct the traffic on the internet. There are millions of servers connected to the Internet, running continuously throughout the world.

• World Wide Web
• Domain Name System
• E-mail
• FTP file transfer
• Chat and instant messaging
• Voice communication
• Streaming audio and video
• Online gaming
• Database servers

Virtually every action taken by an ordinary Internet user requires one or more interactions with one or more servers.

There are also technologies that operate on an inter-server level. Other services do not use dedicated servers; for example peer-to-peer file sharing, some implementations of telephony (e.g. Skype), and supplying television programs to several users (e.g. Kontiki, SlingBox).