Game server
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A game server is remotely or locally run dedicated server used by game clients to play league matches, or in public communities. Any video game played over the internet generally requires a connection to a game server.
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[edit] Types of game servers
Game servers can be classified as listen servers and dedicated servers. Listen servers are run on the same machine as the game client. When the client disconnects, the server is shut down, as the server and host client are run together. Listen servers usually cannot support many players, due to bandwidth and CPU requirements. The software running the listen server typically limits the number of players for this very reason.
Dedicated servers are usually run on dedicated hardware located in a data center, providing more bandwidth and dedicated processing power. Dedicated servers are the preferred method of hosting a game server for practically all PC-based multiplayer games. Dedicated servers can be set up by obtaining the server files, editing the configuration and executing the server.
Massively multiplayer online games are all run on dedicated servers usually hosted by the software company that developed and owns the game title, as this allows them to control and update content. In many cases they are run on clustered servers to allow for huge environments and large player counts.
Listen servers are mostly used by individual players in a LAN party setting.
[edit] Steam Servers
Steam, is a content delivery system of video games that has dramatically increased the popularity of online gaming. Steam, does not require a disc to play a game all files are downloaded and are stored locally on your machine. Popularity in Game Servers has exploded since Steam.
[edit] Game server hosting
Many companies lease dedicated game servers out for a monthly fee. These companies are often referred to as Game Server Providers (GSPs). Often each member of a gaming clan will donate to help defray the monthly costs.
Game server providers often offer web based tools to help control and configure the individual game servers and most allow those that rent/lease to modify the games being leased.
