The. ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying a Server

Transcription

1 The ULTIMATE GUIDE to Buying a Server 1

2 The world of business is always evolving, and those companies that fail to keep up with the latest developments can find themselves left in the dark. If your enterprise has experienced growth in a relatively short space of time, it could be about time to invest in a server, or upgrade your existing one. Whether you have purchased a server before, or this is your first time, it can be a daunting prospect, we ve put together this guide to help you every step of the way. Part 1: Preparation Image: Rack Server HP ProLiant DL380 Gen9 WHAT IS A SERVER? Think of a server as a computer that provides data and services used by other PCs in a network. Designed with different usage requirements in mind, servers are different from desktop computers and are built using technology that is geared around data processing and management. Unless your business has specifically low-end requirements (such as the need for a small office print server to deal with printing jobs), a dedicated server is usually recommended, rather than the use of a souped up PC. DO I NEED ONE? If your workforce has started to grow, it s likely you will need a server in order to create a more effective way to store, process and share data. The key thing to consider is whether or not you have a sound business reason to justify the investment. 2

3 If you want to do any of the following things, you might need a server: Back up a number of PCs on a network Share an internet connection or documents among a number of workers Store all your company data in one central place Run your own website in-house Host your own system Implement an ERP or CRM solution Enable mobile or remote workers to access company data away from the office Reduce the amount of time spent managing individual computers within your office Store huge amounts of data or alleviate the data burden on individual computers SHOULD I UPGRADE? If you already have a server, but are experiencing problems, documents are taking a long time to open, web pages take an eternity to load, or you have received complaints that the system is too slow, it could be time to upgrade. For expanding businesses in particular, these symptoms could be caused by an overloaded system. WHICH SERVER IS THE BEST OPTION? The type of server you need is dictated by how you plan to use it. It s important that you think about your current IT structure, as well as how it is likely to progress in the future. Answering the following questions will help to clarify your requirements: Q: How many users will hit the server? Simply, the more computers your server needs to support, the higher the performance burden on the server. For example, an entry level server may be fine for up to ten users who perform routine office work, but a company with 100 employees will need significantly more power. 3

4 The performance of a server is largely dedicated by a combination of the number, and the type of processors, as well as the amount of memory installed. As a rule, if you are planning to expand, you should cater for any future expansion of your business by ensuring the server you choose can be upgraded to support additional users and applications. Q: Which software applications will be used? Think about the programs that users will need, and how they intend to use the server. It goes without saying that sending a few s and occasionally printing a document is a rather different task than, for example, video streaming and database management. You will find that most software packages specify the minimum and recommended hardware specifications they require, including processor speeds, recommended RAM and storage space. Q: How much data will you have? It is important to ensure your server has the capacity to store all your existing data, along with that you will generate in the future. If you are looking to estimate the storage capacity you are likely to need, firstly, look at your historical and usage patterns. Answer the following questions: How many files do you store at the moment? How long did it take to create them? How much disk space do they occupy? Then, use these figures to predict the amount of data that will be generated over the next two to three years. After this, think about how your usage patterns are likely to change with the introduction of your server. Ask yourself whether you will be using new applications, or changing work processes as a result? Finally, don t forget to add in the space required by the software and operating system you plan to install on the server. Q: Is your server mission critical? Is it vital that your server remains operational at all times? If you know that your business would suffer considerably in the event of a failure, it s best to consider a redundant solution. This means that secondary hardware components - such as processors, hard disks, fans or power supplies - will kick start if the primary hardware fails. 4

5 It is also important that you consider the warranty and support service included with your server purchase too. Depending on the level of expertise you have in-house, you may want to upgrade the standard next business day warranty to a timed response instead. Tower Server: HP ProLiant ML350 Gen9 Managed hosting services are another option for those firms looking to outsource their IT infrastructure. This alleviates the need for you to build and maintain your own infrastructure by allowing you to rent it from a specialist supplier. Rack Server: HP ProLiant DL160 Gen9 Entry HOW MUCH SPACE DO YOU HAVE? Servers come in many shapes and sizes. We have outlined the main specification for each server type below. 1. Tower servers - Built in an upright, standalone cabinet. Similar in size and shape to tower style PCs. 2. Rack servers - Lighter and less bulky than a tower server. Easier to manage in quantity due to taking up less room. Easier to cable. Designed to be bolted on to a rack cabinet. Blade Server: HP ProLiant BL460c Gen9 3. Blade servers - Lighter and less bulky than a tower server. Easier to manage in quantity due to taking up less room. Easier to cable. Consist of a series of circuit boards containing microprocessors and memory all contained in a space-saving chassis. WHAT ABOUT BUDGET? Once you ve figured out how you re going to use your server, you need to ensure you have the right budget for the configuration you need. Be wary of low priced entry level servers which provide limited functionality as standard. You may find that you ll soon need to upgrade to a more capable model thereby wiping out any initial SPEAK TO US The dedicated team at King of Servers is here to help you at every stage throughout the server buying process, and we are always on hand to provide support and guidance. savings. If you d like help finding the perfect Whichever server you decide to purchase, the chances are that you will need to upgrade it in line with business growth at some point server get in touch with us today for free, friendly advice. in the future. Armed with the knowledge relating to your usage requirements, look to spend as much as you can on the hardware and software you need to ensure the server solution you purchase is expandable and therefore fit for purpose both in the short and longer term. Call us on Fill out our online enquiry form, or use the Live Chat function on our website. 5

6 In some cases, a server s standard specification will fit perfectly within your business needs. However, we can t all be that lucky! If not, fear not, there are ways to configure a server so it meets your specific requirements. Let s take a closer look at the components you will typically need to consider when configuring or upgrading your server. Part 2: Configuring your server Image: Blade Servers (L-R) HP ProLiant BL460c Gen8 / BL460c G6 PROCESSOR Things to consider: The capabilities of your server are governed by the performance of its installed processors, the performance of which in turn is expressed by its speed. The faster the speed, the more powerful the processor. One option to improve your server s performance is to upgrade the currently installed processor(s). More than one processor can work at the same time to further improve the performance of your server. Advancements in technology mean that it is now possible to pack multiple processors into the same physical space that a single processor previously occupied. Each processor (or core) is separated from the others so that they don t overlap. As well as saving space, multi-core processors improve performance using less power than multiple individual processors. There are dual-core, quad-core, 6-core, 12-core and even 96-core processors available. 6

7 MEMORY Things to consider: Increasing the memory installed in a server can improve response times and enable better management of multiple connected users We would recommend installing additional memory as the number of users increases The most common type of server memory is ECC (Error Correction Code) memory, which contains special circuitry that tests the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of the memory. This helps to prevent data corruption and keeps the server running smoothly. Entry levels servers typically come with 2-4Gb of memory installed as standard whereas enterprise servers can support 1Tb of RAM or more. DRIVES Things to consider: Some entry-level models are supplied with a preinstalled hard drive, but it is usually up to the buyer to purchase disks based on the storage they require. Be sure to factor your future storage needs, and account for the space needed by your server operating system software applications and any databases you may be using when calculating how much storage you need. 7

8 SSD VS. HDD The two types of drive technology to choose from are conventional hard disk drives (HDD) and solid state drives (SSD). We take a closer look at the two below: Conventional HDD Solid State SSD Contains moving parts Uses memory chips to store data Pro - The cheaper option, meaning you can buy more capacity for your money Pro - Can read and write data significantly faster Con - Noisier Pro - Uses less power Con - Slower Con - Lower maximum storage capacities Con - More susceptible to damage or failure, due to moving parts Con - Higher costs - Con - Shorter life spans WHICH IS BEST? Still undecided? We ve outlined key factors that could contribute to your decision below. Conventional HDD Solid state SSD Buy this if: Reliability, scalability and price trump performance Buy this if: Performance is critical for your business 8

9 SATA VS. SAS For hard disk drives, the two most common connection interfaces you will need to consider are serial ATA (SATA) and serial attached SCSI (SAS). The type of drive you can install is usually dictated by the server you choose. We take a closer look at the two below: SATA Usually supported by entry-level servers Offer the lowest cost per GB Provide performance levels rivalling desktop PCs SAS High-end server models are usually geared towards this drive Better for businesses that view performance, reliability and scalability as crucial Provide flexibility needed for mainstream server and storage applications One thing to consider Both of these connectors are physically identical, and so, many servers can support both SATA and SAS drives; it s all down to the controller card installed in the server. 2.5 VS. 3.5 The physical width of the drive is another important variable to be aware of. We take a look at the key differences between the two here: Typically supported by rack mount servers More common on tower servers One thing to consider Although there are a small number of servers that will support both 2.5 and 3.5 drives in tandem (using additional drive cage kits), the vast majority cater for just one of these sizes. More popular form factor for enterprise storage Pro - Higher maximum capacity, at 6Tb Twice the number of 2.5 drives will fit in a typical rack space Con - Fewer servers support 3.5 drives Pro - More power efficient - Pro - Generate less heat - Pro - Comparable capacities and performance levels to 3.5 drives - Con - Lower maximum capacity, at 1.5Tb 9 -

10 HARD DRIVE CONSIDERATIONS While we may have given you a lot to go on, there are some additional factors to think about. These have been listed below: Avoid buying a server fitted with just a single hard drive where possible - hard drives can fail, and they tend to fail quicker as usage increases. Having at least one additional drive installed provides insurance in case of failure - if you can afford additional drives, you will get additional insurance and performance gains. You will need to connect your drives in a RAID configuration to gain these benefits. RAID stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks. Its purpose is to use an array of hard disks to improve server performance and protect against disk failure. RAID provides redundancy by storing the same data in different places on multiple hard drives. Try to buy drives of equal capacity, because when deploying drives in a RAID, the maximum capacity will be that of the lowest capacity drives, which means the additional capacity on the larger drive will be wasted. You may want to consider purchasing hot swappable hard drives, if your server supports them. If a hot swappable drive fails, it can be removed from the server and replaced without the need to power it down first. Connectivity Things to consider: Choose a server that is compatible with your existing network; whether it is based on wireless, or the more common 10/100 Ethernet. Your server connects to a network via an Ethernet adapter or a network interface card (NIC). Most servers can be bought with either a wired or wireless network card, but you can also install a dual card capable of handling both types of connection. Entry-level servers are equipped with dual port embedded gigabit Ethernet adapters. Those with higher specifications have 10 gigabit connectivity with 4 ports. The more ports available, the more simultaneous network connections are possible, and the more efficient network communications become. 10

11 Assuming you re building a wired network, you ll need a network switch (or combination of switches) with an Ethernet port for each computer you want to connect to the network. The server is usually linked to the connecting switch by 1,000 Mbps CAT 5 or fibre optic cables. There are 4 different types of switches, including: Unmanaged switches Managed switches Smart switches Enterprise managed switches Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Unmanaged switches are the least expensive, can t be configured or managed and are typically used in home offices and small businesses. Pricier managed switches can be configured via a user console allowing the switch s settings to be modified. A smart switch bridges the gap between an unmanaged switch and a smart switch. Smart switches come with web based user consoles and interdependent switch settings. If the user adjusts one setting, any related settings auto are adjusted automatically. Finally, enterprise switches are the most expensive type of switch and are suitable for large companies or large or complex networks. They are monitored 24/7 and typically managed by network specialists due to the size and complexity of the network. Availability Server failures are no joke, but luckily there are a number of measures you can take to keep your server up and running, minimising downtime. Make your server more fault tolerant by purchasing redundant components such as: Power supplies Fans Network cards These devices are known as redundant because, as long as the primary component is working, the second one isn t needed. It only starts to work if the primary part fails to keep your server running. 11

12 In situations where your server has become mission critical, and you simply cannot afford any loss of service, you may want to consider server clustering. This term consists of two or more servers, which are interconnected to appear as one. A cluster configuration can be used to improve both system availability or scalability. If one server fails, another in the cluster steps in to pick up the workload. In general, because servers in the cluster can share the workload, application performance is higher than with a single server. You might also want to consider investing in a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) device. A UPS device protects your server from damaging spikes in your electricity supply and keeps your server running in the event of a power loss. Note that UPS devices run on batteries and can therefore only provide a finite amount of power. Their function is to provide power for long enough to enable all data to be saved and the server to be shut down properly. 12

13 Backup devices Arguably the most important server maintenance task, backups allow users to recover data, should it become lost or corrupted. There are three primary backup solutions available, each suiting different business needs. These are: Solution type Pros Cons Relatively cheap Can be slow to upload or retrieve data depending on connection speed No human management intervention required Ongoing monthly fee Cloud based backups Unlimited storage capacity SLAs may not be watertight No physical location needed Fees payable when switching provider Ticks compliance boxes as data held offsite - Fastest read/write times Need human maintenance Disk based backups Can be used for full or incremental backups Highly available & reliable solutions Requires a physical location Increasing storage means more cost Can emulate tape libraries to minimise disruption to your environment No fire/disaster protection if stored onsite Perfect for archiving Most time consuming solution Tape based backups Highest achievable storage capacities Up front hardware costs are high Stable, portable & cheap media Reliance on humans to swap tapes (unless autoloader or libraries used) 13

14 Server management Most servers come with management software, which allows an administrator to access the server from a remote location, should they need to perform routine maintenance tasks such as BIOS and software upgrades, or initiating a system shutdown. Why remote management? This technology makes perfect sense because without it, businesses would have to wait for the administrator to commute to the office before action can be taken if something goes wrong. As outlined above, entry-level servers provide basic management capabilities, whereas more expensive models provide more sophisticated features, including diagnostic checks and device configuration controls. Security Take server security seriously and protect your data with an up-to-date antivirus solution with automated updates that protect against viruses, spam, malware and similar threats. There are several solutions available from a range of vendors - but the solution that is best for your business is almost certainly the one you understand and can easily use. A no nonsense approach to security will free up your busy IT staff from worrying about routine management Remember It is important to ensure your server includes performance management features, whether they come as standard with the server s operating system, or you opt for third-party solutions (from vendors such as Microsoft or HP). tasks such as virus updates, installing patches or reviewing vulnerability reports. Support The standard level of warranty cover and technical support included with your server may be sufficient for your needs but if not, look to purchase an upgraded and/or extended plan that covers both hardware SPEAK TO US We hope this server buying guide has given you an idea of what you need to look for in a server solution. and software and provides faster response times and on site service, especially if your server will be running mission critical applications. If you need any further information, don t hesitate to get in touch with the King of Servers team, who are on hand to help you every step of the way. Call us on Fill out our online enquiry form, or use the Live Chat function on our website. 14

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