Data Backup Digest

There is no one correct answer when it comes to what the best data storage server to use is. Each business will have different needs, whether that’s anything from high performance, reliability, longevity or a healthy mix of them all. There are a whole load of data storage servers out there for you to buy – you can even build your own. A business should be aware of what they need the storage server for and get one that satisfies their needs efficiently.

The first choice available is a rack mounted server. The servers are installed in a framework which is called a rack, hence the name. Each rack has multiple bays in which hardware can be mounted in to and secured. A rack mounted server’s size is measured in U, with a single U being the same as 1.75 inches in height. The servers can be placed on top of one another, which saves floor space and unites network resources and cabling. It can cause a lot of heat due to all the servers working so close to one another, so using a cooling system is highly recommended. A rack mounted server also offers vast amounts of space (terabytes of it), making it a very suitable data storage server option for a lot of businesses.

A second data storage server you could use is a blade server. These are servers that have been designed to use little physical space and energy. Unlike a rack mounted server that functions with a power cord and network cable, blade servers are without some components in order to decrease power consumption. They are designed to be efficient in power and the consumption of it. Businesses that move to blade servers can see a huge reduction in cabling, which means that managing the infrastructure is much simpler. Like a rack mounted server, a blade server is not only beneficial in its ability to store lots of servers together, but it also consolidates aspects like storage and networking equipment so that it can be controlled through one interface.

Another option is a graphical processing unit (GPU) enhanced server, which is great for those businesses which need high performance. The GPUs work by dividing tasks in to smaller chunks while simultaneously processing them. Speed is the key element of a GPU enhanced server. For the average business it would probably be a bit unneeded to have such a powerful solution, but it is a great option for those in fields such as science and technology.

There are many more data storage server options you could use. Even using the cloud is an option, although that doesn’t offer quite the same benefits. The solution you choose is ultimately down to you and what your business needs. Each type of server has its own benefits and there isn’t a wrong choice – some are just better for different things. If you are looking for a good, reliable solution for the average business then a rock mounted or blade server is the way to go.