What is a web server?

When browsing the Internet, we constantly interact with web servers without even realizing it. But what exactly is a web server?

What is its purpose and how does it work? In this article, we will explain in detail what a web server is and why it is essential for any web agency.

Definition of a Web Server

A web server is software or hardware that stores, processes, and delivers websites to users via an internet browser. It acts as an intermediary between a website and visitors by responding to HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) requests sent by web browsers.

In other words, when an internet user types a website address (URL) into their browser, the browser sends a request to a web server. The server then locates the requested files and sends them back to the browser, which displays them as a web page.

How Does a Web Server Work?

The operation of a web server can be broken down into several steps:

• Receiving the request: The browser sends an HTTP request to the web server when a user tries to access a site.
• Processing the request: The web server identifies the requested resource and retrieves the necessary files (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, etc.).
• Sending the response: Once the files are found, the server sends them back to the browser as an HTTP response.
• Displaying the website: The browser interprets the received files and displays the requested page.

Types of Web Servers

There are several types of web servers, each with its own characteristics:

• Apache: One of the most popular web servers, widely used for hosting websites.
• Nginx: Known for high performance and efficient management of simultaneous connections.
• Microsoft IIS: A solution offered by Microsoft, mainly used for sites running on Windows.
• LiteSpeed: A high-performance alternative optimized for better execution speed.

Why is a Web Server Essential for a Web Agency?

For a web agency, choosing and managing a web server is crucial to ensure:

• Fast website loading: A well-configured server optimizes the response time of web pages.
• Security: Web servers offer advanced features to protect sites against cyberattacks.
• Availability: A reliable server ensures the site is accessible at all times without interruption.
• Scalability: A web agency must be able to adapt its infrastructure to meet clients’ needs.

A web server is a central element of how the Internet functions and a fundamental pillar for any web agency. Choosing the right web server and optimizing it ensures websites are fast, secure, and always accessible.

Need hosting or a custom solution for your website? Contact our agency and benefit from expertise tailored to your needs!