What is a Server?

At the most basic level, a server is a technology solution that “serves” files, data, print, fax resources, and more to multiple computers. Advanced server solutions, such as Windows Small Business Server 2003 R2, also enable you to manage user accounts and passwords, grant or restrict access to shared resources, automatically back up your data, and access business information remotely.

The word “server” often refers to the specialized computer (or hardware) that the server software runs on. The server is optimized to perform services for other computers or “clients.” Clients can be computers as well as printers, faxes, or other devices that connect to the server.