Do you still use the terms ‘Server’ and ‘Host’ like the same word? You’re almost right! These two terms are from computer networking, and even more — they have identical functions. But specialists state: “Any server can be a host, however, not each host can be a server”.
So, what do host and server exactly mean? In this article, we have tried to explain the technical definitions and what is the difference between host and server.
What is a Host?
A host is any of your devices: laptop, desktop computer, smartphone. One or more of these machines should be connected to the network and are accessible over the web.
Each host has a unique identifier called a hostname, which helps to recognize it in the network. It may be an Internet Protocol (IP) address, a domain name, or a unique text string. For example, the internet hostname is /sitechecker.pro.
Devices, which do not have an IP address and do not contain software that enables them to communicate over the network, are not hosts. For example, switches, hubs, and routers can’t be hosts.
The host is also defined as the provider offering hosting service for the site. Web host connects the websites to the network, thus sites can be accessed by those who want to get information, buy products or services.
Here you can learn about the best web hosting for small business.
What is a Server?
A server is a part of hardware or software that provides a service to all devices on the web. The devices, using one or more servers, are called ‘Clients’. The server can serve different numbers of clients. Whichever is most convenient, the client and server can be within separate devices or the same device.
Servers provide multiple services such as sharing resources, storing and managing data, computations, and more. Depending on the service they offer, there are several types of servers:
- file server,
- application server,
- web servers,
- mail server,
- database server.
The server of each type provides different features for the devices in the network. For example, a file server manages and stores the files on the web.
What is a Hosting Server?
A hosting server or web server is one of the types of servers that host websites. It is remotely accessible and has internet server resources and functionality. The priority task the hosting server fulfills is to facilitate online accessibility for one or more sites. That’s why web servers should always be turned on and connected to the internet.
If we talk about a web hosting provider, a hosting server is the main element of his service. It includes all components necessary for the good working of the site, such as operating system (OS), storage, computing hardware, web hosting software, and/or network connectivity.
Websites owners can choose a shared or dedicated hosting server. The first one is cheaper, but it hosts multiple websites simultaneously. The second one is specifically allocated for one customer, but it has the highest price.
In our other article, you can explore the review of the most popular hosting provider companies and find the cheapest VPS hosting.
Host vs Server: What is The Difference?
Are you a little confused after reading the article? If you still can’t differentiate between a host and server, we have prepared a few definitions. It helps you to understand the difference.
The key difference between server and host is that host is any device that connects to the network, while a server is hardware or software that provides services to devices on the web. While a server provides services a host shares and consumes resources.
We hope this article helped you to figure out the terms server vs host.