(Newswire.net — June 15, 2021) — When you first launched your business and watched your start-up idea take flight, you probably didn’t need more than a PC to run programs essential to your company’s operations. Now that your business has scaled beyond two or three employees, it’s time to consider purchasing an enterprise-grade server like this. Not only does a server run a specialized operating system designed to accommodate multiple users, but it also makes it easier to share data and collaborate on projects. Picking a suitable server for your business requires time-intensive and in-depth research, so here are five considerations to keep in mind as you begin your search.
Physical vs. cloud-based
One of the first considerations when choosing a server is determining whether you need a server physically in your office. Cloud-based servers are an excellent option for businesses tight on space or without robust in-office IT support. They also tend to be cheaper upfront, but your monthly budget for your server will follow a similar trajectory to your data growth.
With a cloud-based server, you’ll also never have to worry about your equipment becoming outdated or needing to update your software. One concern many business owners have about cloud-based servers is that your access to the server depends on your access to the internet. On the other hand, a physical server allows you to keep control over your hardware and applications. Security and privacy are less of a concern, and it’s more customizable than a cloud-based server.
Pre-made vs. self-built
If you’ve decided to invest in a physical server, your next task is to determine whether you’d like to purchase a pre-made server or a custom build. One of the most significant benefits of a pre-built server is that you can access support from a name-brand manufacturer. You’ll be able to buy bundled software, and your server will come with a warranty as well. However, building a server yourself comes with the benefit of customizing your server to your business’s needs. If your company uses specific software or applications, you can build a server that can cater to those specifications.
Physical format
Luckily, if your office is tight on space, it’s easy to find a server that will fit right in wherever you need it. Servers come in three main shapes: tower, rack, and blade. Regardless of the shape, each server will contain similar components, but it’s most important to consider your future needs when deciding which format to invest in.
A tower server is shaped like most PCs and serves as an excellent beginner option. A rack server is an excellent choice if your business has grown at lightning speeds and you anticipate needing to purchase multiple servers in the future. However, the more servers you add to your rack, the more cooling power you’ll need. Keeping a whole rack cool requires a climate-control system, and due to this, many businesses will store their rack server in a dedicated room.
Blade servers are similar to rack servers, but blade servers operate inside a chassis. It’s easy to add new servers to this format, and you can install other network components inside the same enclosure. However, blade servers don’t offer as many expansion opportunities.
Consider future needs
It’s critical to be able to predict your business’s growth before you purchase your first server. Investing in an expensive server and then outgrowing your infrastructure before your server needs to be upgraded is only a waste of time and money. Purchasing a server that allows your company room to grow is essential, so don’t choose your enterprise server hastily.
Spec requirements
One of the most significant factors to consider in choosing a server is what types of software and applications your business uses to conduct everyday operations. If your employees simply use PCs for email and basic productivity applications, you may only require network-attached storage (NAS) devices instead of a full-fledged server. However, if your business has a website you host or runs domain services, a dedicated server is a better option. Determining your business’s tech needs and how those needs will change over time will help inform your decision as to what enterprise-grade server is best for you.
The bottom line
Purchasing a server can help increase your business’s efficiency and reduce bottlenecks in your productivity. Constantly look toward the future when investing in critical pieces of technology for your company, and you’ll be able to purchase reliable, long-lasting hardware that contributes to your company’s success.