Theory - 93 Server Concepts, Server Hardware Installation Steps, Configuration of server

 Server Concepts

1. Definition of a Server:

• A server is a specialized computer or software system that provides services, resources, or data to other computers, known as clients, over a network. Servers can host applications, manage network resources, and store data.

2. Types of Servers:

• File Server: Stores and manages files for multiple users on a network.
• Web Server: Hosts websites and serves web pages to clients via HTTP/HTTPS.
• Database Server: Provides database services to other applications or computers.
• Application Server: Hosts applications and provides business logic to client applications.
• Mail Server: Manages and transfers email messages.
• Virtual Server: A software-based server that runs on a physical server, allowing multiple virtual servers to operate on a single hardware platform.

3. Client-Server Architecture:

A model where client devices request services and resources from centralized servers. This architecture can be categorized into:

• Two-Tier Architecture: Direct communication between clients and servers.
• Three-Tier Architecture: Involves a middle layer (application server) between clients and database servers.

Server Hardware

1. Components of Server Hardware:

• Processor (CPU): The central processing unit, responsible for executing instructions. Servers typically use multi-core processors for better performance.
• Memory (RAM): Temporary storage that allows the server to process data quickly. Servers often require large amounts of RAM for handling multiple requests.
• Storage:
• Hard Disk Drives (HDD): Traditional magnetic storage devices.
• Solid State Drives (SSD): Faster storage devices with no moving parts, providing quicker data access.
• RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks): A technology that combines multiple disk drives for redundancy and performance.
• Network Interface Card (NIC): Connects the server to the network, allowing communication with clients and other servers.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU): Provides power to the server components, often with redundancy for reliability.
• Cooling System: Maintains optimal operating temperatures to prevent overheating.

2. Form Factors:

• Rack-Mount Servers: Designed to be mounted in a server rack, saving space and allowing for efficient cooling.
• Tower Servers: Standalone units resembling desktop computers, suitable for small businesses.
• Blade Servers: Modular servers that fit into a chassis, sharing power and cooling resources.

Installation Steps

1. Pre-Installation Planning:

• Determine the server's purpose and required specifications.
• Choose the appropriate operating system (OS) based on the server's role (e.g., Windows Server, Linux distributions).

2. Physical Setup:

• Location: Place the server in a suitable environment with proper ventilation and temperature control.
• Rack Installation: If using a rack-mount server, secure it in the rack using mounting rails.
• Cabling: Connect power cables, network cables, and any peripheral devices (e.g., keyboard, monitor).

3. Power On:

• Turn on the server and ensure all components are functioning correctly (check for POST - Power-On Self-Test).

 Configuration of Server

1. Operating System Installation:

•    Boot from the installation media (USB/DVD).
•    Follow the installation prompts to configure disk partitions, network settings, and user accounts.

2. Network Configuration:

•  Assign a static IP address or configure DHCP settings.
•  Set up DNS servers and gateway information.

3. Security Configuration:

• Configure firewall settings to control incoming and outgoing traffic.
• Set up user accounts and permissions to restrict access to sensitive data.

4. Service Configuration:

• Install and configure necessary server roles and features (e.g., web server, database server).
• Set up any required applications or services (e.g., email server, file sharing).

5. Backup and Recovery:

•   Implement a backup solution to regularly back up server data.
•   Configure recovery options to restore the server in case of failure.

6. Monitoring and Maintenance:

•  Set up monitoring tools to track server performance and resource usage.
•  Regularly update the operating system and applications to patch security vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Understanding server concepts, hardware, installation steps, and configuration is essential for setting up and maintaining a reliable server environment. Proper planning and execution ensure that servers can effectively provide services and resources to clients while maintaining security and performance.