What is File Server? Examples, Types, Features, Benefits & Working!

In this blog post, we are going to cover all possible things about what is file server with its examples, types; and involving with their advantages and disadvantages of file server without any getting to hassle!!

What is File Server?

In computer network, file server is a super performing computer system that has responsible for storing and fetching all types of files (audio file, images, video, database, and other documents), and these files are used by all client machines which are linked over the network. 

file-server

Diagram of File Server

A file server allows users to transfer all files over the entire network without using any physical medium of file transfer such as pen drive, floppy diskette or other external storage media.

File Server Tutorial Headlines:

In this section, we will show you all headlines about this entire article; you can check them as your choice; below shown all:

  1. What is File Server?
  2. Diagram of File Server
  3. File Server in Computer Network
  4. Types of File Server
  5. File Server Example
  6. File Server Architecture
  7. How Does File Server Work?
  8. File Server Protocols
  9. File Server Security Measures
  10. Functions of File Server
  11. File Server Benefits & Features
  12. Advantages of File Server
  13. Disadvantages of File Server
  14. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
  • What do you mean by file server?
  • What is file server used for?
  • Why file server is needed?
  • What are the different types of file server?
  • What is file server example?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of a file server?
  • What are the features of file servers?
  • What is the main purpose of a file server?

Let’s Get Started!!

File Server in Computer Network

A network server helps to store all central data files, which are access by other connected network users. This stored all data on the server eliminates all replication of all files over individual computers, so it needs less disk storage space them. This server plays major role in the network servers and other network operating system like as Windows NT, Novell Netware, UNIX, etc.

Today, file servers are more advance with using enlarge power supplies, various racks for installation of multiple hard disks, and more advance cooling system. It likes as Multiprocessor machines, and configured along with more memory unit compare to single user computer system.

We can set up any computer as host that plays role as a file server. In the other word, file server may be a simple computer system that has abilities to send and retrieve all requests for files over the computer network.

File server acts as dedicated system like as network attached storage (NAS) devices. This dedicated server is commonly implemented in enterprise applications because they offer fastest data access as well as offer higher storage capacity compare to non dedicated server.

All file servers have different goal like as share information, backup, remote storage, and more. There are three models, which are widely used; such as

  • When file server consists file structure, and assign few or whole records along with unique key, and it can perform several operations like as read, write, extend, remove, join, and more.
  • If, file server does not contain internal structure of their files, then this server is not capable to resolve complicated operations, but only to perform read and write tasks.
  • When file server contains all file like as hierarchy form, it means tree shape. This is most common model, and it has internal structure of files as well as allowing solve complex operations.

Types of File Server

File server is divided into two categories like as Dedicated and Non-Dedicated file server. Dedicated server is designed only for use as the File server, along with their workstation attached for reading or writing files as well as database. Non-dedicated server is designed for use as multipurpose like as file server and database server.

Other Types of File Server are:

XS: This is Input only/Caching server, and it is used in simple CHAIN operations only for input.

XF:  This is Input/output Server, and it has ability to perform various functions like as READ, CHAIN, and SETLL to a file.

X: This is Special Scrub & Edit Server, and they can accept cost center, account numbers, numeric fields, or a data string in any valid data entry or file format, convert them to any format, validate the existence of the master record, and optionally pass the master record or the scrubbed data back to the calling program.

File server mostly uses two methods for getting access of data, such as Internet file server and LAN file server. Internet file server is accessed by FTP (File Transfer Protocol), and LAN file server is accessed by SMB/CIFS protocol.

Some Windows File Servers are:

  • Windows File Server
  • Windows Fail over cluster
  • Windows Server Cluster

File Server Example 

File server is mostly used in various areas, for examples small scale organizations, schools, and home network as well. We can configure of file server with several methods; for example all computers can be accessed over the “Local Area Network” while automatically setting of file server. In the other way, like as business setting but here data security is main concern, so file server allows to all client machines to log in before getting to access the server. In other method, to need only grant access for specific list of computer system, which are defined as IP address or MAC address.

Other Examples of File Server

There are some examples of file server; where are going to use file server to fulfil main objectives, including:

Cloud-Based Services: Cloud storage solutions like Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox are popular choices for file storage, editing, and access. They offer simple functionality, automatic syncing, and secure file storage.

Dedicated File Servers: These servers are specifically designed for use as file servers, with workstations attached for reading and writing files and databases. They offer a secure and efficient environment for storing and managing files.

Non-Dedicated File Servers: These servers can be used as workstations and for daily tasks, but they are less secure than dedicated file servers. They can be accessed by multiple users, making them suitable for small businesses and home networks.

Internet File Servers: These servers are frequently accessed through File Transfer Protocol (FTP) or Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), and they often provide dynamic web content in addition to static files.

Database Servers: These servers provide access to a shared database via a database device driver, but they are not considered file servers in the traditional sense. They are designed to store files in a structured format and are not intended for general-purpose file sharing.

File Server Architecture

File server architecture represents to the network architecture; whereas the file server performs as a central repository for keeping and managing files that helping out to provide an easy way to share files in between users and computers over the network. There are different types of file server architectures, including:

Directory Module: This module establishes relationships between file names and their corresponding file IDs.

File Module: This module relates file IDs to specific files.

Access Control Module: This module validates the requested operation and controls access to files.

File Access Module: This module handles the reading and writing of file data or attributes.

Block Module: This module accesses and allocates disk blocks.

Device Module: This module manages the communication between the file server and the storage devices.

How Does File Server Work?

Here, we will show you general overview of how a file server works:

  • It is a central storage repository or workspace that enables multiple users to access files and folders.
  • File servers can be limited to a single local area network (LAN) or can be open to the internet.
  • They store and manage data files, making them accessible to other computers on the same network.
  • Users access files through a set of protocols, such as Network File System (NFS), File Transfer Protocol (FTP), and Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP).
  • File servers can be dedicated or non-dedicated, with dedicated servers providing services solely to other computers and non-dedicated servers offering services to multiple networks.
  • They are going to use for several objectives like as backup, collaboration and storage for line-of-business applications.
  • Access to files on a file server is usually guarded by an identity service for user authentication and a permission structure for controlling access to specific files and folders.

File Server Protocols

Here are some of the main file server protocols:

Server Message Block (SMB)

Purpose: Developed by Microsoft, SMB is the primary protocol used for file and printer sharing in Windows networks.

Versions: SMB has undergone several versions; with SMBv3 being one of the latest and commonly used in modern Windows environments.

Authentication: Supports user authentication to control access to shared resources.

Network File System (NFS)

Purpose: NFS is a distributed file system protocol commonly used in Unix and Linux environments.

Versions: NFS has had several versions, with NFSv4 being a widely adopted version that includes features like strong authentication and improved security.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

Purpose: FTP is a standard network protocol used to transfer files between a client and a server on a computer network.

Modes: FTP supports two modes: active mode (the client initiates the data connection) and passive mode (the server initiates the data connection).

Secure File Transfer Protocols

FTPS (FTP Secure): An extension of FTP that adds support for the Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) cryptographic protocols.

SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol): Operates over an encrypted channel, typically provided by the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol. It provides file transfer capabilities and remote file system access.

Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning (WebDAV)

Purpose: WebDAV extends the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) to enable collaborative editing and management of files on web servers.

Features: Allows users to edit and manage files on a remote server, supporting operations like file locking, versioning, and metadata.

Apple Filing Protocol (AFP)

Purpose: Developed by Apple, AFP is used for file sharing on Mac OS networks.

Features: Supports features specific to Mac environments, including resource forks and metadata.

File Server Security Measures

File server security measures include:

Access Management: Implement robust access controls to manage who can access, modify, and delete files, folders, and shares on the file server.

Encryption: Use encryption to protect data both at rest and in transit. This ensures that even if the data is compromised, it cannot be accessed without the encryption key.

Regular Backups: Perform regular backups of the file server to ensure that data can be restored in the event of a security breach or data loss.

File Upload Security: When allowing file uploads, implement measures such as validating file types, changing filenames, setting size limits, and storing files on a different server to prevent malicious file uploads.

Network Segmentation: Segment the network to isolate the file server from other systems, reducing the impact of a security breach.

Monitoring and Logging: Implement monitoring and logging to track file access and changes, enabling the detection of unauthorized activities.

Patch Management: Keep the file server and associated software up to date with the latest security patches to address known vulnerabilities.

Functions of File Server

There are main functions of a file server, as following them:

Allowing Multiple Users to Access Stored Files: File servers allow users to access, read, change, and delete files and folders on a central storage space.

Freeing up Storage Space for Clients: By storing files on a central server, clients can save storage space on their local devices.

File Sharing: File servers provide a central storage place for files on internal data media, which is accessible to all authorized clients.

File Authorization & Permission Management: Server administrators define strict rules regarding which users have access to specific files and folders, including whether they can only view or also add, edit, or delete the data.

File Locking: This feature prevents multiple users from editing the same file at the same time, ensuring data consistency and avoiding conflicts.

Compatibility with Several Protocols: File servers can use protocols like FTP, SFTP, SMB, and NFS to enable access to files over different networks.

File Server Benefits & Features

The benefits and features of using a file server include:

Easy Organization of Entire File Inventory: A file server provides a central storage place for files on internal data media, which is accessible to all authorized clients, making it easy to organize the entire file inventory.

Convenient File Sharing: File servers allow users to access, read, change, and delete files and folders on a central storage space, providing a convenient way to share files.

Collaboration without Version Conflicts: File locking prevents multiple users from editing the same file at the same time, ensuring data consistency and avoiding conflicts.

Relief of Client Computers: By storing files on a central server, clients can save storage space on their local devices, and the file server can handle the processing and accessing of files more quickly.

Remote Access: File servers can be accessed remotely via WebDAV, (S) FTP, or SCP, making it easy to access files from anywhere.

Data Protection & Security: File servers allow for strict rules regarding which users have access to specific files and folders, ensuring data protection and security.

Advantages of File Server

There are few benefits of file server; such as –

  • Less maintenance of your system
  • Data is highly secured, and easy to get data backup.
  • Easy to data recovery.
  • Easy to handle all files centrally.
  • It does not need change of application programs while changing of physical file
  • Use of versions in future releases to allow programs from a previous release to run against a changed database.
  • Easy to transition from old database to new database.
  • It helps to decrease the storage space pressure of client system.
  • It can be used one file server at once without changing of your entire system.
  • File server can be accessed remotely with using of WebDAV and SCP.

Disadvantages of File Server

There are limitations of file server; like as –

  • It may be costly, if it is used in small companies, where two or three employees work.
  • Require well qualifies IT person to set up and administer.
  • Increase network bandwidth while reading and writing files to and from the file server by all clients.
  • If file server gets halt then all files are lost until it can be recovered from back up.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What do you mean by file server?

File server is a super performing computer system that has responsible for storing and fetching all types of files (audio file, images, video, database, and other documents), and these files are used by all client machines which are linked over the local area network.

What is file server used for?

File server is a computer that has responsibility to get storage and management of data files then other PCs on the same computer network can access those files. It allows users to share all information over the N/W without using any physical transfer files.

Why file server is needed?

File server offers a centralized location to keep store all your files then many users are eligible to work along with the same documents, spread sheets and other data. File server also lets a business to get back up just single PC to be ensured their data is secure.

What are the different types of file server?

File server is classified into two categories like as Dedicated and Non-Dedicated file server. Dedicated server is designed only for use as the File server, along with their workstation attached for reading or writing files as well as database. Non-dedicated server is designed for use as multipurpose like as file server and database server.

What is file server example?

File server is usually used in several areas, for examples small scale organizations, schools, and home network as well. We can configure of file server with several methods; for example all computers can be accessed over the LAN network.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a file server?

Through this post, we already have explained about advantages and disadvantages of a file server; you can read them.

What are the features of file servers?

A file server has many features like as:

  • Simple, secure sharing of business data
  • Remote security and administration
  • Reliability from trace-ability
  • End to end remote security

What is the main purpose of a file server?

The main objective of the file server is to keep storing and managing data files so that other computers on the same network can access the files. It works as a central storage repository that allows users to share information over a network without having to physically transfer files.

Final Remarks

Now, make ensure that you have fully educated about what is file server and its example, types; and involving with their advantages and disadvantages of file server with ease. If this article is useful for you, then please share it along with your friends, family members or relatives over social media platforms like as Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, Twitter, and more.

Also Read: What is Server: Definition, Types, Examples, Functions, and Uses!!

If you have any experience, tips, tricks, or query regarding this issue? You can drop a comment!

Happy Learning!!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *