What Are Web Servers?

by Eleanor McKenzie, Demand Media

Web servers store website data and send it to Internet users.

The term "Web server" can be slightly confusing because it refers to two things. A Web server is a piece of computer hardware that hosts websites. At the same time, the term refers to software in a Web hosting computer that accepts connections from Web browsers. In basic terms, a Web server stores website files and connects you to those files.

Function

The World Wide Web wouldn't function without Web servers. In short, the Web server industry is the hub of Internet use, mostly because website owners usually can't afford their own, personal Web server. So, most people with a website need to rent space on a Web server; otherwise, nobody can access the site. And just like physical storage space that you rent to store furniture, the more space you rent on a Web server, the more it costs you.

How Web Servers Work

All Web servers and every computer connected to the Web has an Internet protocol address. This address identifies the Internet connection on your computer. When you visit a website, a message is sent from your IP address to the IP address of the server that stores the site. The Web server then sends the stored data to your computer and you are able to view the website.

Web Server Software

Web server hardware needs server software to function. This software is also called a "daemon." The fundamental server software elements are hypertext transfer protocol, or HTTP, which provides the website; file transfer protocol, or FTP, which allows you to upload your website files; email servers, which allow sites to offer an email service to visitors; and a database server that stores all operational information about each website. One of the best-known Web server software programs is Apache, which is compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux/Unix operating systems.

Reasons for Using a Web Server

In general, Internet service providers discourage you from running a Web server on their network via your home computer, and they may terminate any accounts that are doing this. However, even if your ISP allowed you to run a Web server, available upload times, even with fast broadband connections, are slow compared with download speeds. A professional Web hosting company can upload at faster speeds and allow thousands of visitors to access your site, whereas if you do it yourself, only a couple of people might be able to see your site.

References

About the Author

Based in London, Eleanor McKenzie has been writing lifestyle-related books and articles since 1998. Her articles have appeared in the "Palm Beach Times" and she is the author of numerous books published by Hamlyn U.K., including "Healing Reiki" and "Pilates System." She holds a Master of Arts in informational studies from London University.