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Server Options

You can choose from a variety of server platforms when selecting a new server. Many companies are releasing packaged or bundled servers that have components that are optimized for a Web server, including the bundling of server specific software. Most of the new servers fall into the following categories. In late 1994, Sun Microsystems released its Netra line of Web-specific servers, which currently dominate the Web server market. Intel-based servers offer the most choices in operating systems and server software and are responsive and flexible. However, because the components are not always assembled and tested by a single manufacturer, Intel-based servers can create configuration and compatibility problems between components that are supposed to work together but do not. MacOS touts an easy user interface but lacks some of the flexibility and horsepower of other server platforms.

When selecting a server platform, keep in mind that the basic purpose of an intranet server is to move data from storage to the network. Make sure that any server you plan to purchase has robust data I/O capability on the disk controller as well as the network controller. Many network and disk controllers are geared for workstation use but are not suitable for use in an environment that handles a large number of concurrent requests. In disk controllers, this means using a SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface) instead of an IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) interface, both of which are commonly used in most computer platforms and are the gateways that provide communication between the devices and the processor. In networking controllers, this means using a network that has some on-board intelligence.

The next sections include a rundown of the different server families and their respective advantages and disadvantages.

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