can someone please explain what a Server is

[fkntotalkaos]

I am looking at upgrading the computer systems in my medical office, and want to know what a server is used for? Specifically the mini http://store.apple.com/us/configure/MC408LL/A?mco=MTM3NTAyODU

I am looking at replacing all the crap dell machines with mac mini and LCD mounted on the walls to save space, and have never known what an actual OSX server is for.

sorry for the nOObish question

 

[GGJstudios]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Server_(computing)

 

[Hellhammer]

"a computer or computer program that manages access to a centralized resource or service in a network."

Basically, they are used to run multiple computers in same network so that admin can control them all and data can be accessed from any computer

 

[slpdLoad]

Any computer can act as a "server", whereby it serves up files to a set of computers on the same network. You would put a shared set of files on this computer, and then all the Mac Minis in your office could connect to that computer, and view/modify the files on the server. You could have multiple folders, or "shares", to keep things organized, or to only allow certain people access to certain folders.

You do not necessarily need Mac OS X Server to do this. A regular Mac Mini running that standard OS X client can do this.

The Mac Mini that you linked to, which ships with OS X Server, is capable of providing many more advanced "services" to the machines that connect to it. For instance, you could configure an iCal or iChat server to manage communication or calendars throughout the Macs in your office.

You should visit http://www.apple.com/server/macosx/ to get an idea of what is possible with a "Server" edition of OS X. It does require a fairly advanced understanding of computer concepts to configure the types of services that OS X Server can provide.

 

[waloshin]

Simple, a computer that is used to "serve" others. Use to Serve files usually.

 

[Jayomat]

I am looking at upgrading the computer systems in my medical office, and want to know what a server is used for? Specifically the mini http://store.apple.com/us/configure/MC408LL/A?mco=MTM3NTAyODU

I am looking at replacing all the crap dell machines with mac mini and LCD mounted on the walls to save space, and have never known what an actual OSX server is for.

sorry for the nOObish question

I don't mean to sound rude or impolite, but if you have no idea what a server is or does, I guess you don't really need one anyway....

What I basically mean is this:

If you have a problem (Some kind of "file sharing problem" in your case), you're looking for a solution (a server in your case). The other way around is pretty uncommon (What is a server? I want to buy one although I have no idea what it does), and somewhat pointless, isn't it?

And on a sidenote: the wikipedia entry for server is the first link you'll get if you just google "server" ...

No offense!