Why does a business need a Server?
Whether you are a start-up business looking to take your first steps with up-to-date technology, or you have a number of PC’s and laptops that have been added as and when needed then a Server could be a vital part of your business. Rapidly a business can have a rather disorganised collection of computers.
Computers can work independently, however employees need to share information. The future is about sharing data and emails 24x7...... and what happens if disaster strikes and you lose use of one or all of your computers? Where is the back-up, when was it last done? How and who can access your data?
Signs that your business needs a Server are:
- no centralised regular back-up of data
- no security
- viruses sneaking in at every opportunity
- employees duplicating work when it could be shared
- wishing you had access to your files and other files while away from your computer or at home
Though peer-to-peer networks may be sufficient if you only have a 2 or 3 computers, as you add data devices you will find security and resource sharing problematic.
So what will a Server do for you?
Your Server will be the centre of you network, providing an efficient backbone for your computers and other data devices. It gives the reassurance of regular back-ups of data as well as network security; allowing certain users access to certain files. Anti-virus or anti-spam software means clean, protected data for all your computers and controlled easy access by staff and outside users. No more duplication, as data is shared and files are managed on one system rather than many, saving time and money. If your computer fails - you can use someone else’s. Many Servers have secondary (redundant) power supplies and dual processors, which will save your day should you lose a power supply or processor.
Why do you need a dedicated Server when the majority of PCs can meet the minimum hardware requirements to run a Server operating system?
The trouble is a PC has not been engineered to be a server, and if you want your systems networked, secure and reliable, while being flexible and easily accessible twenty-four-seven, then it is essential you have the right tool for the job. A dedicated Server is more reliable than a PC. HardSoft always suggest HP Proliant Servers which are scaleable from the small five user network to the larger network which may need a rack server.
This sounds expensive, is it affordable?
The easy solution is to lease a Server where weekly payments can be tailored to suit your budget. The lease will include the support and maintenance by HardSoft with its its own engineers; who have been trading for 25 years. A flexible lease will allow you to upgrade and expand as and when needed, no capital outlays, no redundant equipment, and of course there are many tax benefits to leasing. A lease arrangement protects your technology and makes a Server very affordable.
Sounds complicated, What next?
Talk to HardSoft and get an easy to understand quotation that suits your needs. HardSoft have over 25 years of experience and trained engineers can implement either a PC or Apple Mac Server solution quickly and effectively. A lease package includes different support options. Talk to us today. If you want we can come and visit you for a free appraisal and explain further the benefits of leasing a Server system to you business.