A computer used as a server contains many of the same components as a desktop workstation--a microprocessor, memory, a hard drive, a network connection. In fact, a standard-issue desktop computer is equipped to provide the functionality of a server, and for small applications that deliver modest services to a few users, a desktop computer can simultaneously fill the dual roles of desktop workstation and server. A computer intended to act as a server works most efficiently, however, when it is dedicated solely to server tasks and its hardware is optimized for performance as a server.
Since most of the work of a server is related to delivering data, computers designed for use as servers are equipped with high-performance hard drives and network interfaces that deliver data far more quickly than a standard desktop computer. Also, very little processing power is required to deliver data, so servers have no need for the powerful microprocessors required by desktop computers to manipulate and display data. Because commands are issued to servers remotely from other computers, there is no need for a video card, monitor, keyboard, or other external peripherals. A typical server consists of a standalone box or a component mounted on a rack.