What Does Member Server Mean?
Member server is a server role defined by Microsoft Active Directory (AD), a service that runs on the Windows 2000 and Windows Server 2003 operating systems. A member server belongs to a domain but is not the domain controller. It can function as a file server, database server, application server, firewall, remote access server and certificate server. The domain controller is responsible for authenticating security requests such as logins and permission checking. Member servers provide the backbone of services and applications in a domain.
Techopedia Explains Member Server
When a server is connected to an Active Directory domain, it becomes a member server and permits a local logon and a domain logon. Every company has member servers, ranging from just a few to thousands. Member servers are the core production service of the company. They are available in all sizes, and perform a variety of responsibilities and functions. A member server’s key functions include:
