SharePoint Server is deployed in a topology or layout called a farm. A farm is made up of one or more servers with specific roles or tasks assigned to them. Each of these roles performs different functions in the farm, and they work together to deliver a complete solution.

SharePoint Server deployments traditionally require architects and administrators to plan out the servers and services that are necessary. These architecture services typically include components for searching and indexing the database, the cache, and the application server roles.

While that fine-grained detail and control is still available, Microsoft has also developed a new deployment approach called MinRole. MinRole's design purpose is to optimize your system's resources and maximize performance while providing the best end user experience. To do this, administrators...