 |
» |
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
Printable version
