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In modern business, it’s easy to imagine the cloud is all you need. But is it? Have you considered an onsite server installation? Servers make sense for a variety of use-cases, and if your business manages a lot of data – both internal and sensitive customer data – an onsite setup might be the kind of peace of mind and manageability you need. As your business grows, it can become harder to manage the various aspects of your business. A server provides you with one central location where resources can be stored, organised and shared, from data to printers and other hardware devices.

What is a server?

A server isn’t significantly different from the PC on your desk; it’s a powerful computing device dedicated to managing a network of systems, storage, and data. There are a variety of server types including:

• Print
• Web
• Mail
• File
• Network
• Database

Each server offers a specific use-case, whether it’s hosting a company email database, or hosting company or client websites. These servers house much of your business, from your company data all the way up to entire applications and workflows many of your employees use. The easiest way to understand what a server is, is that whenever one system shares files and resources with other systems, it can be considered a server.

The benefits of an onsite server

Keeping everything centralised gives you more control over how your business – including its data – is handled. It’s easier to keep track of files and helps prevent data fragmentation, which happens when people work on separate, duplicate copies of the same file. Servers also simplify the process of sharing tools, devices, settings and files – particularly if you’re spread over multiple locations. Servers are designed for remote administration, so configuration and troubleshooting can often be handled remotely without having to physically access the server or an employee’s computer. Speaking of employees, servers excel in multi-user setups, whereby each person has their own customised access to your business’s resources, ensuring they have what they need and no access to what they don’t. Multi-user setups are also ideal if you need to share desks or office space – users simply sign into a computer to access their personalised setup, including apps and data. Servers can also introduce savings throughout your business and you can start by switching employees to lower-powered – and more affordable – ‘thin clients’ like . Because the server handles most of the heavy lifting, client computers also have longer shelf lives than typical desktop PCs or laptop, which require upgrading every few years to match constant performance increases in computing technology. Servers are also hugely flexible. As your business grows, they can be reconfigured to add extra functionality, such as customer relationship management software or a centralised email platform. Finally, if you’re making the choice between cloud and onsite server solutions, an onsite server can mean a larger upfront investment, but can quickly pay off as you avoid ongoing expenses with a 3^rd party cloud solution.  

Read more on onsite servers vs. cloud solutions here.

 

What type of server should I get?

If you’re just starting out with a small business, then a tower server such as is a strong choice. A self-contained server with everything housed in a single tower case, the TS100-E9-PI4 requires no dedicated server room and can even be housed under a desk if space is tight. Tower servers are particularly suited to smaller businesses with fewer than 25 clients or workstations. The other principal type is a rack server. This is a more flexible – but more complicated – setup, whereby you stack multiple servers together in special racks, enabling you to build customised setups with different servers handling specific tasks as required. Rack servers are easy to upgrade and expand as circumstances demand. The racks also accommodate all other required hardware, from storage to security and network devices. Rack servers will usually require their own dedicated room or space, and are best for larger businesses or those with a focus on information technology. Browse the ASUS range of servers and workstation products: ASUS Server Products