A local server is a computer on a network that runs unattended and performs services for the user’s PCs (workstations) on the network.
Usually it will include a faster processor and memory, more RAM, larger hard drives, higher reliability, redundant power supplies, redundant hard drives (RAID).
The local server can perform a variety of tasks, the most common ones being;
- A high speed connection of the network to the Internet, instead of each user having their own.
- Connection of the network to a wide area network (WAN), perhaps a company worldwide network or just to a head office system
- Carrying out processor intensive processes so the user can continue working at their workstation without loss of speed
- Specific functions such as email receipt and sending, this is often done by a dedicated local server called a mail server
- Storage of data that can be shared by all users on the network, for example common databases
- Backing up of workstation files. All workstations are backed up onto the server hard drives. These are backed up onto DAT tapes.
- Storage of applications for download. IT personnel can install software on workstations without needing to carry all the set-up disks
One big advantage of using a local server is that the workstations can be cheaper, low end PCs with relatively little memory or processing power.
