A server is a computer program that provides service to another program and its user. In a data center, the physical computer that a server program runs in is referred to as a server. A server awaits and fulfills the requests from a client. A cloud server is a server that is built, hosted and delivered through a cloud computing platform on the internet. It has the same capabilities as a physical server but it is accessed remotely from a cloud service provider.
A cloud provider is a company that delivers this service. It can be in the form of Infrastructure as a service (IaaS), software as a service (SaaS) or platform as a service (PaaS). These services are offered to other businesses and individuals and are referred to as cloud service providers. Now servers are categorized according to their purpose. For example, a web server receives a request from a client (web browser) in the form of HTML files. The server then responds by performing the request.
The advantages of a cloud server are numerous. Let us start with its cost-effective nature.
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Multiple servers are available to each client. Resources are available on a needs basis and are appointed to a particular client on demand. Making it flexible and efficient. More than that, clients only pay for the resources they are using. As opposed to a monthly or yearly subscription irrespective of the number of resources being used. This makes it work more like a dedicated server.
It is also very reliable as the resources are shifted to accommodate clients. Giving them a quality experience. Having a cloud server does not comprise of a physical computer in a data center somewhere or buying one for that matter. A cloud server involves a virtual server space on the internet, often paid for per hour depending on the resources used. Cloud servers run on a hypervisor, which controls the capacity of operating systems, to be allocated whenever required.
As for web servers, they work in the same way but slightly more rigid. The functionalities performed can be the same, but it depends on the type of hosting being applied. For example, the shared hosting although cheaper has limited resources available. It is also risky for companies or individuals with sensitive data because they are prone to hacking easily. They require a standard payment irrespective of the resources used and do not provide the best resources for site management. It is basic and applies mostly to small enterprises and perhaps bloggers.
This type of hosting cannot handle heavy traffic. In order for a client to select the right web hosting solutions, they need to estimate the traffic levels expected and make a decision based on their calculations. Dedicated hosting is a better option and cloud server hosting closely resembles this. The difference is that it is often more expensive in the long run. It handles traffic well with nearly unlimited resources. Your data is also well protected. However, interference in the data center with it could issue a risk to the clients. These data centers are easily accessed by people who have an entry, therefore those with access need to be screened for clearance first to maintain the best security solutions.
The world is also moving towards the cloud computing world. Maintaining their data online in secured servers for easy working schedules and operations. When you can access your workstation online, it makes it easy to work remotely and do tasks on the go without going back to the office. It saves on time and money as organizations are investing less in office space and more on virtual office solutions for their clients and employees.