A web server is software and hardware that uses HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and other protocols to respond to client requests made over the World Wide Web.
The main job of a web server is to display website content through storing, processing and delivering webpages to users.
Besides HTTP, web servers also support SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) and FTP (File Transfer Protocol), used for email, file transfer and storage.
World wide web
A web server is a computer system that is designed to host websites and serve web pages to users across the Internet. It plays a crucial role in the functioning of the World Wide Web (WWW), as it stores, processes and delivers web pages to users who request them.
A web server can be set up using software such as Apache, Nginx, or Microsoft IIS, which are some of the most popular web server software options available. The server can be hosted on a physical machine or in the cloud.
How do web servers work?
Web server software is accessed through the domain names of websites and ensures the delivery of the site's content to the requesting user. The software side is also comprised of several components, with at least an HTTP server. The HTTP server is able to understand HTTP and URLs.
When a user requests a web page from a website, the request is sent to the web server, which then returns the appropriate HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files that make up the web page. The server may also access a database to retrieve dynamic data, such as articles or product information, which can then be combined with the HTML files to create a complete web page.
Each web server has its own unique set of features and capabilities, making it important for website owners and developers to carefully choose the right web server for their needs. For example, Apache is a popular choice for its open-source nature and vast community of developers, while NGINX is known for its high performance and scalability.
Examples of web server use
Web servers often come as part of a larger package of the internet- and intranet-related programs that are used for:
sending and receiving emails;
downloading requests for File Transfer Protocol (FTP) files; and
building and publishing web pages.
Dynamic vs. static web servers
A web server can be used to serve either static or dynamic content. Static refers to the content being shown as is, while dynamic content can be updated and changed. A static web server will consist of a computer and HTTP software. It is considered static because the sever will send hosted files as is to a browser.
Dynamic web browsers will consist of a web server and other software such as an application server and database. It is considered dynamic because the application server can be used to update any hosted files before they are sent to a browser. The web server can generate content when it is requested from the database. Though this process is more flexible, it is also more complicated.
conclusion
Web servers are an essential component of the Internet, as they serve as the primary point of contact between users and websites. They must be reliable, fast, and secure to ensure that web pages are delivered to users quickly and without any data breaches.
In conclusion, a web server is a critical piece of technology that allows users to access information and resources on the Internet. With the growing importance of the Internet in our daily lives, web servers will continue to play a crucial role in connecting people with information and services online.