What is the function of a web server?

The function of a web server is primarily to serve web pages to users using HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol). When a user requests a webpage by entering a URL in their browser, the web server processes this request and retrieves the appropriate web page from its stored files. It then delivers this content back to the user’s browser, enabling them to view the webpage. Web servers handle requests from clients (typically web browsers) and can serve static content, like HTML files, images, and CSS stylesheets, as well as dynamic content that may require real-time data processing through scripts or web applications.

In contrast, securing data on a network is generally the responsibility of different security devices or software, such as firewalls or antivirus programs, which are designed specifically to protect information. Creating web applications involves a different set of tools and a layer of software development that often goes beyond the basic function of a web server. Monitoring network traffic typically falls under the role of network management and security devices, such as intrusion detection systems or network analyzers. While these other functions are vital to the overall structure of web services and cybersecurity, they do not define the primary role of a web server.