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Servers

Summary

Objectives

By the end of this session you should be able to:

  • Explain what a “server” is, and how it contrasts with other types of computer
  • Explore common Linux server software

Key Points

  • A server is a computer that runs server software; in comparison to a desktop, they generally have no mouse, keyboard or monitor and are managed remotely
  • Common Linux server software includes Apache httpd, MySQL and WordPress

Breakdown

WordPress

WordPress is a very popular piece of software used for hosting websites. It is built on a "stack" of other pieces of software called the LAMP stack. LAMP is an acronym that stands for:

  • Linux - the Open Source Operating System.
  • Apache httpd - an Open Source Web Server.
  • MySQL - an Open Source Database Server.
  • PHP - a Programming Language.

Installing, configuring and maintaining WordPress is a good way to develop and practice System Adminstration skills.

Servers

"Server" refers to two distinct things:

  • A piece of software that provides a service - e.g. a Web Server, which provides a website service.
  • A computer specifically designed for running server software.

A picture of a 1U rackmount server with the top removed, exposing the internal components This image by "Rodzilla" at English Wikipedia is licensed under CC-BY-2.5

Consider this image of a typical computer designed to run a web server. Notable features include:

  • A "slab-like" design, which allows it to be mounted with other servers in a rack.
  • A monitor connection at the front of the computer, which allows a monitor to be connected for troubleshooting (in normal operation, servers do not usually have monitors attached).
  • Loud fans and large holes which allow for lots of air-flow and cooling of components.
  • Easily removable components and a "sliding" removal design, allowing for quick repair and maintenance.

This computer would be impractical for home use. However, it still has the same components as a home computer - there is nothing technically restricting it from being used as a desktop computer. There is also nothing stopping people from running server software on a desktop computer - and many people do!