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The word "server" often appears in discussions concerning the Internet
(Web server, mail server and chat server for example) and company networks
(print server and document server for example). But how does a server differ
from the computer sitting beneath your desk? What are servers used for and how
might you benefit from using one?
A server is a computer, often a mid-to-high end system, which offers some kind
of service or resource to a number of users, most often over a network. A server
differs from a desktop system in that a server usually provides a small number
of specific services to its users. Desktop systems are designed for everyday
use, allowing users to perform a large number of tasks, from checking email or
writing documents, to watching streaming video or archiving data.
Servers are used to support a number of users who may need to share a single
service or resource. This resource is placed in a single location, on the
server, allowing for easy configuration and management, while also allowing for
access by a large number of users.
Take, for example, a Web server. A Web server can hold a multitude of
information regarding an organization, such as product information, contact
information, investor information, and support documents, just to name a few.
Because all of this information resides in a single place, you can easily
change, update, and manage it, while allowing any number of users to access that
information by simply visiting the Web site.
However, there are many other uses for servers outside of Web hosting. Servers
can be used for data storage or archival, for running centralized applications,
for sending and receiving mail, or even as simply an efficient way to organize
and manage a network infrastructure.
HP and Compaq offer a wide range of server solutions to meet your organization's
needs, from small Web hosting solutions to mid-sized data storage to scalable
cutting-edge critical systems and beyond.
- Compaq Proliant Servers: comprehensive computing systems that
include all the necessary components -- processor, memory, and network
connections -- on a single plane called a blade. These systems are designed
to reduce space requirements in high-density computing centers while
offering a rack-mountable system that utilizes shared components, such as
cabling, power-supplies and cooling fans.
- HP Tower Servers: offered in standalone and rack-mountable versions
and with 1 to 6 CPUs per server, these systems are designed to accommodate a
large amount of internal storage and I/O expansion. These systems are an
excellent server solution for small-to-medium organizations.
- Compaq AlphaServers: high performance systems for Tru64 Unix,
OpenVMS and Linux, offering entry-level, mid-range, and high-performance
Alpha architecture solutions, with 1 to 32 processors. These systems are
available in both rack-mount and desktop configurations.
- HP rack-optimized servers: high availability servers with a unique
space-saving design, offering 1 to 16 CPUs per server and available in a
number of different architectures. These systems offer robust service and
management features in a scalable package.
- HP super-scalable servers: ideal for large-scale applications and
databases, these servers are extremely powerful and flexible, offering
high-available solutions with 1 to 64 CPUs per server. These servers are
designed to meet high-end demands.
- Compaq NonStop Integrity Servers: providing the highest levels of
availability and scalability for critical applications, these servers
include fault tolerance reliability, data integrity, and continuous
availability.
For more information
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