Size Does Matter

Any time a server is needed the first question is always "How big a server should I order?" If the server is too big for its role, money is wasted . If the server is too small it will have to be upgraded or replaced long before its useful life runs out and that costs money too. The trick for IT administrators is to purchase a server that is just right. In doing so they are able to not only make their users happy but also keep the accounting department happy.

It is important to note that the size of a server should bring to mind not only the amount of processing capacity and storage but also the physical size and requirements of the server. Most companies don't have limitless space in the data center nor do they have infinite power and cooling. Minimizing the footprint of the server can go a long way towards controlling costs and increasing overall system stability. The other item that must be addressed is the scalability of the server. Is it upgradeable? Does it have the capacity to grow as the environment grows? If not, how will that be handled? Although the answers to those questions will vary based on application and environment, this chapter endeavors to answer those questions and give you insight into the options for scaling various technologies.

Determining Your Needs

There are many factors that will influence the purchase of a new server. The most obvious factor is the role of the server. Although there are many decision points that are applicable to most any server there are also several issues specific to particular roles of servers that must be addressed. Those specifics are covered in the following sections.