- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
A dedicated server is a server that isn't run by an individual. So, this means that no one has the 'host advantage' of zero ping, which means no lag for the host. This also means that the dedicated server is run by someone's personal computer, or by the big 'ol Official Bungie servers that are located Somewhere.
A non-dedicated server (commonly referred to as simply a 'server')
...is a server that isn't dedicated. <--(Observe my 1337 helping skillz!)
A non-dedicated server is a server that is hosted by a player who is playing on the computer that is hosting. So, this means that because the host is the server, he has no lag, because he's the server. So, there's no cables or distance or anything to get in the way, which is why the host has zero ping, because he's the server.
Dedicated servers make the game reasonably fair for everyone. Depending, of course, on everyone's individual internet connection.
Non-dedicated servers give the host the advantage of zero ping, which means he doesn't have to lead off.
If this is just all way too confusing, please ask for a simpler and less convoluted answer.