Backup/disaster recovery – With a centralized location for all of your important business files, backups become much simpler. Instead of backing data up from individual PCs you can now implement a backup solution that will pull files from a single location. Additionally, this data is now stored on a number of hard drives in a RAID array that provides redundancy of the data on the server. A server now plays an essential role in your disaster recovery plan.

Mobility and remote access – New innovations in software solutions, like Windows Small Business Server 2008 have made accessibility to all of your resources and data more accessible to users from home or on the road.  Now you can access names, appointments and files from your laptop or even your phone!

Share resources and equipment – A server can facilitate sharing of faxes, printers, scanners and other equipment on your network. This will enable you to get the most value from your technology investments.

Collaboration – Server tools will provide opportunities for you to collaborate on projects or share information.  An Exchange solution from Microsoft will provide a shared calendar solution and ability to host your own e-mail.

Security – A server will enhance your security.  With a centralized point of reference for anti-virus and anti-spyware solutions as well as administrative tools that will allow or restrict access to certain users on your network you have the power to manage your network in ways not possible on a peer-to-peer network.

Performance – A robust server with current software solutions should improve your overall network performance and will streamline operations, thus making your organization more efficient.

What to consider when purchasing a server?

We recognize that there are many server solutions to choose from.  While this website will not provide you with answers to all of your questions regarding servers, our intention is to address some of the more basic questions and to provide you with a starting point.  One of the ways that Personalized Computers can add value to a relationship with a client is to help you cut through the jungle of information and provide a few possible solutions based on your needs and our experience. If you are considering a new server, this site may be a good resource, but we encourage you to contact one of our account executives to evaluate your needs and to help you make the best decision possible!

Pedestal or Rack? – A pedestal server is a stand-alone solution that resembles a traditional computer.  It is generally larger in size than a desktop computer solution, but stands upright like a standard tower.  This is the typical solution for a small business with a single server.  This can easily be stored in a closet or under a desk.  A rack solution is intended for a larger organization or one that anticipates growth.  A rack-mounted server is a high-density solution that will allow for several servers to be placed in a small area of space.  In addition to rack-mounted servers, you can populate your computer rack with network switches, telephone equipment, battery backup devices and firewall appliances.  If you are running 2 or more servers (SQL, Exchange, backup server) or planning on virtualization or a SAN (storage area network) you may want to consider a rack solution.

Xeon 3400 or Xeon 5500? – We have come to rely on Intel for years of leadership in server solutions.  With the new CPU architecture of the Xeon processors you are assured to get the most out of your server solution!  The Xeon 34xx series processor is a single processor solution intended for the entry-level position.  Server boards for this series support between 8 GB and 16 GB of RAM. Most small businesses would look to this less-expensive solution for their basic server needs.  Intel has both pedestal and rack solutions for this processor family.  In contrast, the Xeon 55xx family is designed for dual-socket servers and supports between 32 GB and 96 GB of RAM.

Which operating system is right for me? – Most of our clients run a flavor of the Microsoft server family.  These products include Windows Server, Windows Small Business Server, Exchange Server and SQL Server.  While these are all good solutions and will depend on your individual needs, we are also experienced in Linux-based solutions and maintain several clients on a Novell platform. This question will definitely require more interaction regarding your applications and technology goals to answer.

What is the Intel Modular Server? – This solution comes in a rack configuration and is ideal for organizations who want the flexibility to grow their IT needs with changes in technology.  This server comes with a built in HDD storage and a gigabit switch. It also has space for up to 5 “compute modules” or individual servers.  Through an administrative tool you can allocate space on the hard drive between the modules as needed.  This is an ideal setup for virtualization or a SAN.

What backup solutions are available? – In a word, many.  This is another way that we can help to cut through the confusion.  The world of tape backups and libraries has given way to virtualization, NAS or SAN solutions and offsite backups.  Personalized Computers has scores of possible backup solutions for any budget.  Our experience tells us that the range of products is tremendous.  It is a matter of finding the comfortable balance between price and reliability. 

Other considerations – There are many other variables which come into play when considering a server.  One of the first things to consider the software that you use in your organization.  Consulting with your software provider is generally and important part of this process.  They may have specific requirements to ensure compatibility and support.  You may also want to consider physical space in your office, potential thermal issues and any industry-specific guidelines such as HIPAA for the medical industry.

Why Personalized Computers?

Intel servers – We use Intel building blocks for the highest quality solutions and a single point of reference for support and troubleshooting.  That said, if you are set on a server from Dell, HP or Lenovo, we have forged strategic partnerships that would allow us to provide you one of these solutions and add our expertise of network implementation.

Experience – For 12 years we have provided server solutions that are robust, secure, reliable and address the needs of the organization.  Our engineers are trained and certified to implement the latest technology.  Our client list is second to none.  Please ask for referrals, it may surprise you!

Location – As a mid-Missouri business we are more responsive to your needs than any of the multi-national companies are able to be.  They don’t have a local partner who is vested in their success or your loyalty.  We are that local partner!