Definition: Server
A computer that provides data to other computers. It may serve data over a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN) over the Internet.
There are different types of servers, including Web servers, mail servers, and file servers. Each server runs software specific to the purpose of the server.
The hardware used for a server is not as important, as long as the hardware is sufficient to support the demands of the server. Any desktop computer could be turned into a server by adding the appropriate software. However, most large businesses use rack-mountable hardware designed specifically for a server. Multiple rack-mountable servers can be placed in a single rack, and often share monitors and input devices. Most servers are accessed remotely using remote access software, making input devices unnecessary.
[…] this function, which can reside in a machine with other applications, or to a stand-alone computer (server) dedicated only to the email […]