Deciding When You Need a Server

How do you know when it's time to get a server? Kim Komando, writing for the Microsoft Small Business Centre in Australia, answered that question. In her article “5 Things to Know Before Buying a Server”, she spoke of her own situation. Her business used a peer-to-peer network in which computers communicated through a hub. Initially this setup worked fine. But as soon as multiple users required access to the same database, things slowed down considerably. This degradation in performance led Komando to the conclusion that she needed a server.

According to Komando, you might need a server if:

• there are interruptions in your workflow

• two or more people use the same database

• operations slow down or stop when one computer crashes

• remote access to files is needed

Now that you have determined that you need a server, how do you decide which one to buy? This is where server rentals can be very helpful.

Testing New Hardware

Renting a server can help you decide which machine best suits your needs. If you run a small business and you are considering your first purchase of a file server, you may not even be aware of what your needs are. Before you commit your money to a purchase, you may want to try a server rental to put the machine through its paces in your actual work environment.

If your budget allows, you could even test a low-end and high-end machine with similar specs to see which performs better for you. You might be surprised at how well a lower cost server can perform.

In a recent blog post, LANcom Technology, based in New Zealand, listed some points to consider when evaluating a server:

• Speed requirements – A higher number of gigahertz (GHz) does not necessarily mean faster processing. The type of processor makes all the difference. For example, a quad-core processor can perform four processes simultaneously, while a single processor can handle only one at a time.

• Server level – A lower range server will cost less but may be considerably slower. A mid-range server may have greater capabilities, e.g. for dual-core processors, more memory and other features that improve performance. Renting a server in the low and mid-range can help you decide what's best.

• Future requirements – When looking at servers, be sure to factor in business growth. Consider the amount of RAM, the size of the hard disk, and backup capacities. You do not want to be caught short a few years down the road when you have more employees placing more demands on your network.

Server rentals allow you to set up a temporary network to run your day-to-day business. You can then see how the server responds to your workload. From there you can decide what kind of server is best suited to your business.

When renting a server, find a vendor with a wide product range so you can choose between models. Ideally, your vendor should offer not just server rentals, but rent-to-own arrangements. If you decide to buy you can then make your purchase from the same company.