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A Guide to the Different Types of Servers

With all the hype about the cloud taking over the business world, you would think that no business has physical servers anymore. But that isn’t the case. Although the cloud is convenient, there’s still a strong case to make for companies to invest in their own servers.

If you want to build the best tech infrastructure for your business, you need to understand the types of servers available to you. Below are the main ones to consider.

File Server

A file server allows you to create a central location to store all your business files. Instead of employees storing everything on individual computers, you connect your file server to your network and each computer.

This allows you to organize a central place to store everything. Depending on the software you use, it’s also possible to safeguard your files against unauthorized use by utilizing authentication.

Application Server

If you have desktop software in your organization, the chances are good that you want to share it with your employees. But you can’t do this without a central location to access the application.

An application server gives you that spot. Install the management software on your application server and access it with the desktop or web versions.

Database Server

A database server is one of the server options that allow you to store data vital to your operation. It differs from file servers because applications can access your database.

You’ll buy a database server depending on the database your applications use. Shop for Microsoft SQL server if you want one compatible with most apps.

Mail Server

In some cases, you don’t want your business email to be on an external server. You have sensitive information, so you don’t want to trust another company with your data.

You can set up your own mail system to account for your needs. You can set your email to point to a private mail server and store all your business email on company hardware.

Web Server

A web server exposes a server to the internet. But instead of accessing files and databases publicly, you publish a website to the world for people to visit.

You can get a web server in two main ways: rent a web server online or buy one and install web server software.

When you rent a server, you rely on another company experienced with web hosting to stay online. But if you build a web server, you own your data and must ensure your website stays online.

Pick the Right Types of Servers

Technology servers are a great option to add to your IT infrastructure. Using a server for individual business needs allows you to configure it to meet your demands. But you may not know where to start with all the types of servers available.

Now that you’ve read the guide above, choosing a server should be easier. Start with the one that will make the biggest impact and go from there.

Do you want to check out more guides for improving your company’s IT? Check out the blog to learn more business technology tips.

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