Network vs. Server: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A network is a system of interconnected devices, while a server is a computer that provides data to other computers.
Key Differences
A network refers to a group of interconnected computers, devices, and other technologies, forming a complex web of communication lines. In contrast, a server is a specific type of computer or software system designed to provide services, data, or resources to other computers, known as clients, within the network.
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Nov 22, 2023
Networks facilitate communication and data exchange between various devices, creating a platform for shared resources and information flow. On the other hand, a server acts as a central point in this communication web, offering specific services like web hosting, email, or file storage to other networked devices.
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Nov 22, 2023
The scope of a network can vary from a small local area network (LAN) to the vastness of the internet, encompassing a wide range of technologies and protocols. Conversely, servers are focused entities within a network, each designated for a particular function or service, like a database server, mail server, or web server.
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Nov 22, 2023
Networks are abstract concepts, represented physically by cables, routers, switches, and wireless signals, forming the infrastructure for digital connectivity. Servers, in contrast, can be physical machines or virtualized instances running on physical hardware, dedicated to processing requests and delivering services.
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Nov 22, 2023
Managing a network involves overseeing its architecture, connectivity, and security, ensuring seamless communication between devices. Server management, however, focuses on maintaining server performance, ensuring uptime, security, and efficient handling of client requests.
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Nov 22, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A system of interconnected devices.
A computer that provides services.
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Nov 22, 2023
Function
Facilitates communication and data exchange.
Processes and responds to client requests.
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Nov 22, 2023
Composition
Comprises devices, routers, cables, etc.
Can be a physical machine or software.
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Nov 22, 2023
Operational Context
Operates as a communication medium.
Operates as a service provider.
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Nov 22, 2023
Maintenance Focus
Involves overseeing connectivity and security.
Involves ensuring performance and uptime.
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Nov 22, 2023
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Network and Server Definitions
Network
A network is an interconnected system of computers and devices.
The office network allows employees to share files and resources.
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Nov 18, 2023
Server
A server can be a physical machine or a virtualized instance within a network.
The virtual servers run multiple applications on a single physical machine.
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Nov 18, 2023
Network
A network transmits data between computers using wired or wireless technologies.
The company's network ensures fast and secure data transmission between departments.
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Nov 18, 2023
Server
A server processes requests from clients and returns the necessary responses.
The email server processes incoming and outgoing messages for the organization.
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Nov 18, 2023
Network
An openwork fabric or structure in which cords, threads, or wires cross at regular intervals.
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Nov 17, 2023
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Server
A server is a computer that provides data and services to other computers.
The web server hosts the website and serves it to users' browsers.
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Nov 18, 2023
Network
A system of lines or channels that cross or interconnect
A network of railroads.
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Nov 17, 2023
Server
Servers manage and supply resources like files, applications, or databases.
The file server stores all the company's important documents.
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Nov 18, 2023
Server
Servers act as central points in a network, managing data flow and connectivity.
The database server is crucial for retrieving and storing customer information.
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Nov 18, 2023
Network
An extended group of people with similar interests or concerns who interact and remain in informal contact for mutual assistance or support.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A chain of radio or television broadcasting stations linked by wire or microwave relay.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A group or system of electric components and connecting circuitry designed to function in a specific manner.
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Nov 17, 2023
Server
(Law) One who serves a legal process, such as a summons or court order.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
(Computers) A system of computers interconnected by telephone wires or other means in order to share information. Also called net1.
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Nov 17, 2023
Server
A computer that processes requests for HTML and other documents that are components of webpages.
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Nov 17, 2023
Server
(computing) A program that provides services to other programs or devices, either in the same computer or over a computer network.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
To interact or engage in informal communication with others for mutual assistance or support.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A fabric or structure of fibrous elements attached to each other at regular intervals.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
Any interconnected group or system
A network of roads crisscrossed the country.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A directory of people maintained for their advancement
To get a job in today's economy, it is important to have a strong network.
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Nov 17, 2023
Server
(Christianity) A priest's attendant at the celebration of the Eucharist.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
(broadcasting) A group of affiliated television stations that broadcast common programs from a parent company.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
Multiple computers and other devices connected together to share information
The copy machine is connected to the network so it can now serve as a printer.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
(intransitive) To interact socially for the purpose of getting connections or personal advancement.
Many people find it worthwhile to network for jobs and information.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
(transitive) To connect two or more computers or other computerized devices.
If we network his machine to the server, he will be able to see all the files.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
To broadcast across an entire network of stations and affiliates at the same time.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A fabric of threads, cords, or wires crossing each other at certain intervals, and knotted or secured at the crossings, thus leaving spaces or meshes between them.
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Nov 17, 2023
Server
(computer science) a computer that provides client stations with access to files and printers as shared resources to a computer network
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
Any system of lines or channels interlacing or crossing like the fabric of a net; as, a network of veins; a network of railroads.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A system of computers linked together by communications channels allowing the exchange of data between the linked computers.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A group of transmitting stations connected by communications channels that permit the same program to be broadcast simultaneously from multiple stations over a very wide area; as, the CBS television network;
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
Any arrangement of electrical devices or elements connected together by conducting wires; as, a power transmission network.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
A group of buildings connected by means of transportation and communication between them, and controlled by a central organization for a common purpose; as, a book distribution network.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
To take steps to make and cultivate the acquaintance of people who can be helpful to oneself, especially in finding new employment, advancing to a higher position in one's occupation, or exchanging information.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
To connect together into a network; as, to network computers; to network the printer with computers.
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
An interconnected system of things or people;
He owned a network of shops
Retirement meant dropping out of a whole network of people who had been part of my life
Tangled in a web of cloth
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
(broadcasting) a communication system consisting of a group of broadcasting stations that all transmit the same programs;
The networks compete to broadcast important sports events
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Nov 17, 2023
Network
An open fabric of string or rope or wire woven together at regular intervals
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Network
A system of intersecting lines or channels;
A railroad network
A network of canals
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Network
(electronics) a system of interconnected electronic components or circuits
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Network
Communicate with and within a group;
You have to network if you want to get a good job
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Network
A network facilitates the exchange of information across connected devices.
The university's network enables students to access academic resources.
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Nov 18, 2023
Network
Networks allow multiple devices to use shared resources like printers or servers.
Our home network connects all devices to the central printer.
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Nov 18, 2023
Network
Networks provide the infrastructure for internet, intranet, and extranet services.
The global network of the internet connects millions of users worldwide.
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Nov 18, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can a network exist without a server?
Yes, networks can function without servers, especially in peer-to-peer setups.
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Nov 22, 2023
What is a network?
A network is a system of interconnected computers and devices for sharing data and resources.
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Nov 22, 2023
Is a server always a physical machine?
No, servers can be physical machines or virtual instances.
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Nov 22, 2023
Do servers need special software?
Yes, servers run specific software based on their intended function.
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Nov 22, 2023
How do networks connect devices?
Networks use wired or wireless technologies to connect devices for communication and resource sharing.
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Nov 22, 2023
What does a server do?
A server provides data, services, or resources to other computers within a network.
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Nov 22, 2023
What types of servers are there?
There are various types, including web servers, file servers, and database servers.
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Nov 22, 2023
How do servers manage data storage?
Servers use various storage solutions like hard drives, SSDs, and network storage.
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Nov 22, 2023
What is the role of a router in a network?
Routers direct data traffic within a network and to other networks.
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Nov 22, 2023
Can a server be a client in a network?
Yes, servers can also act as clients when requesting services from other servers.
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Nov 22, 2023
Can a device be part of multiple networks?
Yes, a device can connect to multiple networks simultaneously, like Wi-Fi and VPN.
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Nov 22, 2023
How do servers handle security?
Servers implement security measures like firewalls, encryption, and access controls.
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Nov 22, 2023
What is a wireless network?
A wireless network allows devices to connect and communicate without physical cables.
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Nov 22, 2023
What is network bandwidth?
Network bandwidth refers to the maximum rate of data transfer across a network.
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Nov 22, 2023
What is network latency?
Network latency is the time it takes for data to travel from source to destination in a network.
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Nov 22, 2023
What is a LAN?
LAN (Local Area Network) is a network confined to a small geographical area like a building.
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Nov 22, 2023
What's the difference between intranet and internet in networking?
Intranet is a private network within an organization, while the internet is a global network.
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Nov 22, 2023
Are servers always on?
Typically, servers are designed to be always on to provide continuous service.
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Nov 22, 2023
Can servers be remotely accessed?
Yes, servers can be accessed and managed remotely.
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Nov 22, 2023
What are cloud servers?
Cloud servers are virtual servers hosted in a remote data center, accessible over the internet.
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Nov 22, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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