10 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Server For Your Network

Before your business can set up a network, you need to purchase a server. A server is a computer that stores all the data for your network and manages the flow of information between all the different devices. With so many different servers on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for your business.

Here are ten factors you should consider when choosing a server for your network.

1. The Size of Your Business

Small businesses with fewer than ten employees won’t need as powerful or robust a server as a larger business. Save yourself some money and choose a smaller server that can still handle your business’s needs.

There are two main factors you need to consider when considering the size of your business.

Number of Employees: The number of employees in your business will affect the amount of data they need to access and the number of devices they need to connect to the network. If you have a lot of employees, you’ll need a server that can handle more traffic.
Amount of Data: How much data you need to store will also affect the server size you need. If you have a lot of data, you’ll need a bigger server so it can all fit. You should also consider how often you add new data and whether or not you ever delete old data.

2. The Type of Business You Have

If you have a business that deals with sensitive information, such as personal data or financial records, you’ll need a server that offers extra security measures, like data encryption. On the other hand, if you have a more straightforward business, like an online retail store, you won’t need to worry about security as much and can focus on other factors instead.

3. Your Budget

You’ll need to consider how much you will spend on a server. More expensive servers will offer more features and power than cheaper ones, but they may not necessarily be better for your business. Make sure to weigh all the factors before making your decision.

4. The Scalability of the Server

As your business grows, you’ll need a server that can grow with it.

Choose a server that offers scalability options and includes Syslog server monitoring, so you won’t have to purchase a new server every time your business expands while also making sure that you have the capability of availing Syslog server monitoring to ensure the efficient functioning of your system.

You need to consider three main factors when considering the server’s scalability.

The Ability to Add More Users: As your business grows, you’ll need to be able to add more users to the network. Make sure the server you choose can accommodate additional users without any problems.
The Ability to Increase Storage: As your business generates more data, you’ll need a server with more storage capacity. Choose a server that allows you to upgrade your storage as needed so you won’t have to purchase a new server every time you run out of space.
The Ability to Handle More Traffic: As your business grows, the traffic on your network will increase. Make sure the server you choose can handle the increased traffic without any issues.

5. The Processor

The processor is important because it determines how fast the server can work and how much data it can process at any given time. If possible, choose a processor with multiple cores to handle more tasks simultaneously without slowing down.

6. The Amount of RAM

Random access memory (RAM) is crucial because it allows the processor to access data quickly while the server runs multiple tasks simultaneously. More RAM will allow the processor to work more quickly and efficiently.

7. The Storage Capacity

You’ll need to decide how much storage capacity you need to store all the data for your network. If you anticipate needing more storage in the future, choose a server with scalable storage so that you can add more capacity as needed without having to replace the entire server.

When considering the server’s storage capacity, you need to consider three main factors.

The Type of Data You’re Storing: The type of data you’re storing will affect how much space you need. For example, if you’re storing a lot of video files, they will take up more space than text files.
The Frequency of Data Changes: If you have data that frequently changes, like live streaming video, you’ll need more storage so that the new data can be written to the server quickly. On the other hand, if you have data that doesn’t often change, like static images, you won’t need as much storage.
The Ability to Delete Old Data: As your business grows, you’ll need to delete old data to make room for new data. Choose a server like ones from HPE DL380 Gen10 Server series that allows you to delete old data quickly and efficiently so that you can keep the storage capacity at a manageable level.

8. The Operating System

The operating system (OS) is what controls everything on the server and makes sure all the different software programs are compatible with each other. Make sure to choose an OS that works well with all the other software programs you plan to use on your network.

9. The Warranty

Most servers come with a warranty or guarantee if anything goes wrong within a certain time frame after purchase. If possible, choose a server with a more extended warranty so that you’re covered in case of any problems down the road.

10. The Customer Support

Customer support is vital if you face any problems while setting up or using your server. Make sure to choose a company that offers good customer support in case you need help at any point down the road.

There are three main factors you need to consider when considering customer support.

The Availability of Customer Support: Ensure the customer support team is available 24/7 if you have server problems.
The Response Time of Customer Support: Choose a company that offers quick and efficient customer support to get the help you need as soon as possible.
The Quality of Customer Support: Make sure the customer support team is knowledgeable and can help you solve any problems you may have with your server.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider when choosing a server for your network. The most important factors to keep in mind are the processor, the amount of RAM, the storage capacity, the operating system, the warranty, and the customer support. Keep these factors in mind when deciding so that you can choose the best server for your needs.