6DC.01 Know that a range of digital content is stored on servers

What is a server?

• A person who serves food

• A computer that stores and sends data to other computers

• A smartphone app only

• A printer cable

Answer explanation

A server is a computer that stores and sends data to other computers, enabling them to access resources and services over a network. This definition distinguishes it from other options like food servers or printer cables.

Which of these is commonly stored on servers?

• Live streaming videos

• Paper books only in a classroom

• Handmade drawings in a folder you can only touch

• Chalk on a blackboard

Answer explanation

Live streaming videos are commonly stored on servers to allow for efficient access and distribution over the internet, unlike the other options which are physical or limited to specific locations.

What does a streaming service (like video or music streaming) do?

• Streams water through pipes

• Sends small parts of media from a server to your device so you can play it immediately

• Prints playlists on paper

• Stores only offline files on your PC

Answer explanation

A streaming service sends small parts of media from a server to your device, allowing you to play it immediately without downloading the entire file first. This is essential for real-time access to video or music.

Where are messages (like email or chat) usually stored?

• Only on a paper note

• On messaging servers that keep copies and forward them to recipients

• Inside a light bulb

• In your brain only

Answer explanation

Messages like email or chat are typically stored on messaging servers. These servers keep copies of the messages and forward them to the intended recipients, ensuring reliable communication.

When you watch a video online, which device acts as the client that requests the video from the server?

• A server in a data center

• Your device, such as a laptop, tablet, or phone

• An internet cable in the wall

• A projector in a theater

Answer explanation

Your device, such as a laptop, tablet, or phone, acts as the client that requests the video from the server. It initiates the request, while the server provides the video content.

Why do streaming services use many servers (a server farm or cloud)?

• To store lots of data and serve many users at once without slowing down

• To make cables heavier

• To print more DVDs

• To reduce internet speed

Answer explanation

Streaming services use many servers to efficiently store vast amounts of data and handle numerous users simultaneously, ensuring smooth performance without delays. This is crucial for delivering high-quality streaming experiences.

What is a backup server used for?

• To play music only

• To keep copies of data in case the main server fails or loses data

• To slow down the network intentionally

• To erase files quickly

Answer explanation

A backup server is essential for maintaining data integrity. It stores copies of data to ensure that if the main server fails or loses data, the information can be restored, making this option the correct choice.

Which of these might a web server store?

• Webpages, images, and files that a website shows to visitors

• Only handwritten notes in a drawer

• School uniforms

• Chalk dust

Answer explanation

A web server stores webpages, images, and files to deliver content to visitors. The other options, like handwritten notes or school uniforms, are unrelated to web server functions.

If a streaming video is buffering, what is likely happening?

• Your device is getting more electricity

• The server or your connection can’t send data fast enough to keep up with playback

• The video is being printed slowly

• The screen is cleaning itself

Answer explanation

When a streaming video is buffering, it means that the server or your internet connection is unable to send data quickly enough to maintain smooth playback, causing interruptions.

How do messaging servers help when the recipient is offline?

• They throw the message away

• They store the message and deliver it when the recipient comes online

• They print the message and mail it

• They delete the sender’s profile

Answer explanation

Messaging servers store messages for offline recipients and deliver them once they come online, ensuring communication is not lost. This is why the correct answer is that they store the message and deliver it when the recipient comes online.