Business networks are an essential part of any modern business’s infrastructure, irrespective of its size. They facilitate data storage, transmission, sharing, business operations, efficiency, productivity, services, and much more.
Therefore, appropriate business network deployment is important. The heart of any business network is the network server, and choosing the appropriate one can seem daunting with all the various options, functions, and features available.
Understanding the various type of network servers can help you narrow down choices that meet your business’s requirements.
Let’s discuss what a network server is and the types of network servers available in the markets to help you better understand their forms, functions, applications, and more.
Of course, you must always remember to consult expert professionals like Communications Solutions Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida, for all your business network needs, including the types of network servers that best suit your business needs.
That being said, let’s dive right in.
What Is a Network Server?
A network server is the central network device (or a central computer) of your business network. It provides various resources for all the nodes (connected devices) of a network. Things like email communications, hardware access, storage space, file sharing, printer access, etc., for nodes are all done through the network server.
Unlike the nodes of your business network, the network server needs more power, performance, security, and stability to deliver the mentioned functions round the clock. Therefore, it requires superior hardware for better processing (CPUs), memory (RAM), storage (hard drives), etc., and robust software (OS and apps) as well.
This type of superior hardware and software is what allows a network server to run and handle the exhausting tasks prompted by the nodes of a network.
Types of Network Servers
Network servers are available in different configurations. To make things simple, we have categorized them into key segments like applications, form factors, and instruction sets.
Types by Applications
Application network servers can vary depending on the requirements, and your business requirements will dictate the application of your network server. Depending on the application, network servers can be classified as the following.
- File Servers
These servers are in charge of file storage, sharing, and overall management. The connected nodes or computers of your business network can use file servers to access, edit, and share files with each other.
- Database Servers
Business data management, including sensitive data, is crucial, and these servers allow you to safely store and manage entire databases. Typically, the connected nodes only gain access to this data if they are authorized.
- Application Server
These network servers allow connected nodes to access a wide range of data types on your business network and deliver the processing power for the applications of your business.
Types by Form Factor
Typically, network equipment is mounted on server racks and enclosures. However, depending on the form factor of your network server, this may not always be the case.
- Rack Servers
Such servers are mounted on a server rack or enclosure and are capable of accommodating all hardware devices to function as a comprehensive, stand-alone network system. Such rack systems are highly efficient for space management, access, connectivity, and maintenance of the hardware, especially if you have multiple servers mounted on racks and enclosures in a dedicated server room.
- Tower Servers
These servers are very similar to a regular desktop PC because they have a similar stand-alone chassis that houses all the network hardware. They can be powerful and convenient because they do not need to be mounted. However, they do not provide easy access, maintenance, or management of hardware.
- Blade Servers
Blade servers are specifically designed for high-capacity data centers. They are high-density performance servers with compact “blade-like” design elements. Blade servers offer immense computing power while using less space and energy than other types of network servers. However, such features make them quite expensive as well.
- Cabinet Servers
These servers combine storage, networking, and computing to deliver various applications. They can deploy various hardware configurations and separate software to offer comprehensive server solutions. The hardware is mounted in racks or enclosures, providing convenient access, connectivity, maintenance, and management.
Types by Number of Processors
As you would expect, the number of processors or CPUs in a server can also dictate its type by the number of processors. These include:
- Single-Processor Servers (One CPU)
- Dual-Processor Servers (Two CPUs)
- Quad-Processor Servers (Four CPUs)
- Octa-Processor Servers (Eight CPUs)
Types by Instruction Set
The way a server executes the instructions of a program can also dictate its type.
- Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC) Servers
These servers are also known as X86 servers, and they execute the program instructions sequentially and serially. Sequential execution in CISC servers offers convenient control. However, component utilization is not great, and the execution speed is relatively sluggish.
- Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) Servers
RISC servers offer a relatively basic system of instructions that provides efficient execution of simple tasks and energy savings. However, they have low efficiency for executing more complex tasks.
- Very Long Instruction Word (VLIW) Servers
These servers take on advanced Explicitly Parallel Instruction Computing (EPIC), simplifying the processor architecture and reducing manufacturing costs. As a result, they offer low costs, energy savings, and relatively higher performance.
Conclusion
The mentioned types of network servers and their descriptions are a basic explanation for you to better understand the various types of network servers. Of course, there are different configurations, functions, and features depending on your business needs.
While this information will certainly help you narrow down your choices, we highly recommend consulting expert professionals like Communications Solutions Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida.
They are experts in business networks and network servers and can help you deploy the ideal network server that suits your business requirements perfectly.
If you want to learn more about the various types of network servers or about the best business network and network server solutions in Florida, Contact Us Today!