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I could turn my mac into an FTP server, a file sharing server and a music sharing server. From where I am standing, this doesn't look like it's an actual server; or is it? A server to me is a "box" with no screen, and sits on a shelf, generally doesn't turn off

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@Ben: Not a duplicate, that question was about hardware and everybody agreed what made it a server, this is about what makes something a server in the same place. – Caleb Apr 14 '11 at 11:05
Why is my question closed instead of migrated to the correct site? – alexy13 Apr 14 '11 at 22:57

closed as off topic by Ben Pilbrow, Tom O'Connor, SvW, Iain♦, John Gardeniers Apr 14 '11 at 11:22

Questions on Server Fault are expected to relate to professional server, networking, or related infrastructure administration within the scope defined in the FAQ. Consider editing the question or leaving comments for improvement if you believe the question can be reworded to fit within the scope. Read more about closed questions here.

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The term "server" refers to the functionality, not the shape or position of the box. Windows servers often have attached screens with full guis (however silly of them); some servers live on desks in lobbies instead of in climate controlled racks; and last but not least some servers even turn off now and then!

The line gets drawn when other computers depend on network access to a "central" one for services of any kind. That box becomes a server.

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