WHAT IS A SERVER?
A server in the IT industry is defined as a computer that provides data, services, and resources to other computers. They are like “supercomputers” that are built to work 24/7 and deliver information to clients within either the internet (Wide Area Network) or a local network. Servers perform various functions, serving as the intermediaries that enable many computer-related tasks, such as communicating with people, browsing web pages, and accessing network drives.
Servers are critical in our daily lives, even though we may not directly interact with them. They are essential for work, study, and entertainment. They are the backbone of the internet, powering the services and information we access through our desktops, tablets, and mobile devices.
HOW DOES A SERVER WORK?
Servers are set up to receive requests from other computers in their network, known as clients. They use the IP address, a numerical identifier assigned to each computer in the network, to determine the validity of the request. Once the request is verified, the server delivers the relevant data to users through IT hardware such as network cables.
The internal components of a server are comprised of various hardware parts that function together to perform its tasks. Different businesses have varying IT needs, for example, a data center for a big corporation will require more power than a server in a small office. These components can be customized or optimized to cater to the specific requirements of the business.
COMPONENTS OF A SERVER
A server contains various parts, including stronger components compared to those found in laptops and phones. These parts can be configured to deliver enterprise-level performance. Here are some key components of a Server and their functionalities:
WHAT IS A CPU?
The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is the central component of a server that executes program instructions. It acts as the “brain” of the server and can support anywhere from 1 to 8 CPUs, depending on the server model and operational scale. Since the CPU is the most power-hungry component, it’s crucial to make it as efficient as possible to avoid excessive resource and budget drain. For help choosing the best CPU for your business, check out our IT infrastructure manager’s blog.
WHAT IS RAM MEMORY?
Server Memory, also known as Random Access Memory (RAM), is responsible for processing data from the Server Storage to the CPU. It is a type of volatile memory that does not retain information once the Server is turned off, acting as the Server’s temporary memory.
RAM is crucial to the Server’s functionality as without it, the Server would not be able to perform efficiently and quickly. Upgrading the RAM and CPU is often prioritized when upgrading the Server, highlighting the importance of these components.
To learn more about Server RAM, visit our Technical Training Coordinator’s blog. Slav is the head of Ref Group Academy, which trains all Ref Group staff on the latest data center hardware, and he frequently writes informative blog posts in the Techpedia series for our readers.
WHAT IS SERVER STORAGE? (HDDS AND SSDS)
Think of RAM Memory as the Server’s temporary memory, while HDDs and SSDs are the permanent memory. HDDs and SSDs can retain data even when the power is off and are capable of both reading and writing data.
Servers have multiple bays for storage, allowing for the expansion of capacity as the organization grows. More storage can be added to the server, depending on the model and compatibility, as the business expands and adds more employees and IT infrastructure.
WHAT IS A PSU? (POWER SUPPLY UNIT)
A Data Center Power Supply Unit, despite its name, doesn’t actually provide power. It converts AC (alternating current) power into DC (direct current) which is then distributed to the server’s components. To ensure efficient cooling, servers require at least two PSUs with functioning fans.
WHAT IS A MOTHERBOARD?
The motherboard sometimes referred to as a System Board or Main Board, facilitates data transmission through the northbridge or southbridge to components such as the CPU and RAM. As a crucial component in the server, the motherboard enables the communication between other parts of the system.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SERVER FOR YOUR IT REQUIREMENTS
Nowadays, Servers offer a range of sophisticated services, but in the past, they were only intended for specific functions such as proxy, web, and mail servers.
When selecting a Server for personal or business use, the main options are Rack, Tower, and Blade Servers, which vary in design, cost, build, and shape.
The components of Rack, Tower, and Blade Servers are largely similar and can perform a variety of functions. However, budget and performance requirements are significant factors in determining the appropriate IT infrastructure. Here’s a brief summary of each Server to aid in choosing the best fit for your needs.
WHAT ARE TOWER SERVERS?
Tower Servers are the most cost-effective Server option. Sometimes confused with a standard desktop computer, Tower Servers can be standalone, either inside or outside of a server cabinet, while Blade and Rack Servers must be housed in a cabinet. The simpler design of Tower Servers provides a cooling advantage and reduces the risk of overheating.
Tower Servers are appropriate for personal use and mid-sized organizations due to their lower cost, and if necessary, they can be converted into a Rack Server for expanding needs.
WHAT ARE RACK SERVERS?
Rack Servers are intended to be installed in bays specifically designed for servers, and require a vertical, compact enclosure that must be housed in a cabinet. This provides increased security and streamlines the cabling among network components.
Rack Servers also offer benefits such as increased scalability, making them suitable for growing businesses, and ease of maintenance due to their pull-out design.
WHAT ARE BLADE SERVERS?
Blade Servers are the most compact among the three primary types of Servers. With a sleek, space-saving design, Blade Servers are the most advanced type available. Blade Servers have minimal cabling needs, and multiple blades can be linked through a single interface, making maintenance and monitoring simple.
When comparing Blade and Rack Servers, Blade Servers are the priciest, as they are the most recent in Server design. Rack Servers are a more cost-effective choice. Blade Servers are ideal for businesses with a large number of clients or high-performance needs.
CONFIGURING SERVERS TO YOUR SPECIFIC IT NEEDS
When choosing a Server that meets your needs, you don’t have to settle for the standard components. Servers can be configured and optimized to fit your specific business needs, resulting in improved energy efficiency, cost savings, and environmental benefits.
WHERE CAN I BUY SERVERS AND SERVER COMPONENTS?
REF Group has a vast inventory of over $12 million in servers, storage, networking equipment, laptops, and desktops, able to meet any IT needs. With a range of over 150 brands including Dell, HPE, and IBM, Ref Group offers both new and high-quality refurbished equipment. In addition to supplying IT hardware, Ref Group also purchases used IT equipment, and upgrades and replaces existing infrastructure, helping thousands of small and large businesses and public sector organizations meet their IT needs annually.
Check out our full selection of servers online or contact our IT experts. Our custom Server Configure-to-Order service is available for free and every IT product we sell comes with a year warranty. If you’re looking to build your own HPE Server, utilize Ref Group’s top-notch CTO tool which creates precise server configurations in minutes. Our team will then set up your servers at no cost to you.