Choosing the right server for your business
The server has transformed how small businesses operate, and with falling costs and improving efficiency, there has never been a better time to start using a server in your business – but which one should you choose?
When shopping around for servers it can seem a daunting task with so many different server types, processors and hard drive options available. However it doesn’t need to be so complicated with CoRE Educational’s simple 4 step guide to choosing a server which is right for your business.
Can you use a small business server?
A server is a remote computer that is generally stored in a data center. It is always on and connected to the internet via gigabit ethernet. It can be used to host a diverse variety of services and applications for accomplishing business goals.
Business servers can be used for
- Secure email hosting,
- File sharing
- Cloud storage
- Hosting a website or E-commerce store.
- Hosting SaaS (Software as a Service) apps such as CRM, invoice and employee management, or planning and collaboration software.
- Supporting multiple virtual servers
- Backing-up business data
- Storing and collaborating on documents
- Providing virtual desktops to employees.
A small business server can power all of these services and more. A powerful server is capable of supporting all of them simultaneously, although there are benefits to splitting functionality between several smaller servers.
How to choose a small business server.
Step 1. Research server specs and what application you wish to run, along with your backup solution
The easiest way to do this is too make a list of all the applications you wish to run on the server. it is also good to consider how many users it needs to serve for both now and for in the future, and then google this to find out what resources your applications use.
Step 2: Determine the Best Small Business Server Location
When setting up a server for small business, you have two main options on location:
- setting up a server that will sit in your office; or
- hosting a server in the cloud.
While it may seem like a no-brainer to just pay a one time fee and buy a server, there are pros and cons to each approach.
Running small business servers in your own office
PROS:
- Single up-front hardware cost
- May end up being cheaper in the long-term
- Easier to keep data secure
CONS:
- May end up being more expensive in the long-term
- Electricity to power and cool the server can be expensive
- Hardware replacement costs
- No 24×7 support
- No immediate hardware replacement in the event of component failure
- Normally no on-site security or support team
- Inadequate fire-suppression and cooling infrastructure
- Hardware becomes outdated quickly
- No redundant power or network
Hosting a server on the cloud
PROS:
- Latest hardware, upgrade anytime
- 24×7 expert support with on-site staff for hardware replacement
- No additional costs for cooling or powering the server
- Secure facility with 24×7 security
- Redundant network and power connections
- Fire suppression and early fire detection
CONS:
- Monthly recurring fees
- No physical access to the server
- Possible security issues as not hosted on site
Step 3: Calculate Your Business Servers Budget
When it comes to any business purchase, saving money is paramount. As servers can be a costly expense, here at CoRE Educational, we can provide high quality grade A refurbished servers and switches to suit any business. We can also provide expert advise to help you choose the correct specification and make sure you’re getting the right hardware at the right price.
Give me, Abbygail, a call or email abbygail@coreeducational.org.uk to discuss your business hardware needs.
We are here to help!
If there is anything CoRE can do to help secure your school or business data please don’t hesitate to contact me on 0330 22 35 229 or email abbygail@coreeducational.org.uk
