db server and web server...
 

ok.. n00b question so I hope this even makes sense:

I got a set-up where I'm told I need a db server and web server (its a .asp site backed with a db). do I have to BOTH a db and web server (ie: TWO different servers)? or can I just get a good VPS or dedicated and run both off of it (provided there is adequate space).

Without knowing the details of that software, 'server' is also often refferd to when talking about server-side software:

- Webserver (ie. Apache, IIS, ..)
- Database server (in case of software: Oracle, MySQL, ..)

I can only assume that they talk about the software, so if you can run both the webserver and database server software on a single machine, then i don't see a reason why it must be on 2 seperate physical machines.

PS This logic also works the other way: you can have 2 physical machines (servers) to run a single server function (load balanced webserver for example).

I dont think you require two different servers for a hosting. Even a single high end server would be able to host your database as well as your website. It all depends on your requirements which server do you require -VPS or a Dedicated Server.