A server is much more than a beefed up desktop
At first glance, the basic components of a PC and a server might appear to be the same. But a closer look reveals that the technology that goes into a server is engineered to different standards.
A PC is designed to run desktop applications and a user-friendly operating system. A server is engineered specifically to manage, store, send and process data around the clock. As a result, servers are designed to be more reliable than client computers. Technologies found in a server that are absent in most PCs include redundant power, hot-swappable hard drives, multiple-processor capability and configuration options for services like e-mail and Web site management.
It probably won't surprise you to find out that a server typically costs more than a desktop, but then again, a server is designed to do more than a desktop. It might, however, surprise you to find out a solid entry-level server doesn't cost that much more than a high-end desktop. Many file/print and Web servers (two of the most common uses for servers in small businesses) come well equipped for a reasonable price.
Levels of performance
An entry-level server might be sufficient if you've got a small workgroup that simply needs to share files and printers. Typically, entry-level servers have a basic processor and 128 to 512MB of memory.
More advanced servers typically have Intel® Pentium® 4 or AMD Athlon MP processors for faster processing speeds. Servers built around these processors usually have more memory, hard-disk space and room for expansion. A well-equipped server in this class would have at least 512MB of memory, three or four hard drives, 10/100/1000 Ethernet capability, and five or more expansion slots. A server of this caliber is ideal for workgroups of 10 who need to share files, printers and e-mail.
In terms of speed, the highest level of servers is based on dual-core processing. Dual core refers to a central processing unit (CPU) that includes two complete execution cores per physical processor, meaning each processor can perform multiple tasks simultaneously. Because of their increased processing capabilities, dual-core processors reduce the overall number of servers you need, lower power consumption and produce substantial performance improvements.
AMD's Opteron and Intel's EM64T processors give you dual-core processing speeds plus the capability to run current 32-bit and new-to-the-market 64-bit software. Dual-core servers typically come with several gigabytes of memory, several expansion slots and Gigabit Ethernet network adaptors. If you plan to work with large graphics files, audio or video content, technical data or engineering software, you will need this level of performance.
Remember when evaluating servers that you must consider your needs now and in the future. Get as much memory as you can afford. Don't short change yourself on storage. Look for a server that offers easy-to-use management tools. And be sure there are sufficient numbers of extra drive bays and memory slots so you can increase performance and capacity down the road.
Do you need a server?
Server technology and benefits notwithstanding, you don't want to make technology purchases that won't benefit your bottom line, facilitate key business processes or otherwise make your life easier. While there is no single litmus test you can use to determine if you need a server, some general guidelines do apply.
If your office only has three or four staff members who share files across networked computers, surf the Web or send e-mail, you may not need a server at all. However, once you have five or more employees working together on a network, a server can provide a central location for your important files, shared applications and other resources you regularly use, like project documents and even an image library.
In general, if you need to put a computer system in place that processes, shares or otherwise manages data, you'll need a server.
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Is a server right
for you?
If you want to implement any of the following systems or applications, you'll need a server:
• File and print server
• Microsoft Exchange system or other e-mail server
• Firewall or other security system
• Web site or company intranet
• Database
• ERP or CRM solution
• E-commerce solution
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CDW Leasing
CDW offers four different leasing terms with three end-of-lease options. CDW leasing specialists are available to assist with quotes, account information or any questions that you have. To learn more, contact your CDW account manager today. |
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