What is a Web Server? A Complete Guide to Understanding Web Hosting Infrastructure
Introduction Web servers are the backbone of the internet. They run behind the scenes to make sure we can visit our favorite websites smoothly. Without them, the internet as we know it couldn’t exist. As more people go online every day, the role of web servers becomes even more important. They keep websites available, fast, and secure for millions of users worldwide. Understanding web servers helps us see how the digital world is kept running. What Is a Web Server? Definition and Core Functionality What Is a Web Server? A web server is both a piece of hardware and a program. The hardware is the physical machine that stores website files, while the software is what manages those files and delivers them to visitors. Think of a web server like a digital post office. It holds websites’ content and sends it out when someone asks for it. The hardware includes servers, which are powerful computers designed to handle many requests at once. How Web Servers Work When you type a website’s a...