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An X Server is a server in exactly the same way and for the same reason that a web server is a server (or a database server, or a file server, or a DNS server..
by ajross 3y ago
An X Server is a server in exactly the same way and for the same reason that a web server is a server (or a database server, or a file server, or a DNS server...). It runs in perpetuity and waits for connections from ephemeral clients who will direct it to do stuff. I genuinely don't know anyone who remained confused about this once this was explained to them the first time.
- Karellen 3y agoOne slight variation on that way of thinking about it - a server mediates access to a resource for its clients. A file server mediates access to a file system; clients connect to access files. A database server mediates access to a collection of data; clients connect to access data. A print server mediates access to a printer; clients connect to access the printer. And an X server mediates access to the graphics device; clients connect to access the display and its related peripherals (keyboard, mouse).