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Have you ever met a stereotypical IT guy or girl? They’re a bit much to deal with sometimes. No offence to them, but I just don’t understand what the heck they’re talking about. I ask them about a server, and they spout on for ten minutes in a seemingly different language. I’m left thinking, “so, what does a server actually do?!”. We’re not all that techy here at Start-Up Booster, but we do know our stuff. So, if you’ve come here with the intention of learning about servers, we’re going to make this easy for you. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is A Server?
A server is very much like a traditional PC in the way it works. It still runs on a Windows operating system in many cases, and it shares similar features. The difference is that it hosts your entire company, sending data throughout the business on a 24/7 basis. It works hard and comes packed with masses of server-specific tools to help your business run effectively.
What Are The Main Benefits?
The biggest benefit of a server is in its security features. Storing data on a server rather than an individual PC protects it much more thoroughly. Also, you can block people from accessing certain features. If Mike in accounting doesn’t even know the difference between standby and shutdown, you can block him from advanced tools. In general, a server offers more reliability, greater virus management and much more.
Is It A Physical Thing That Sits In My Building?
Oh my, yes. Servers aren’t small, and they generate a serious amount of heat. For this reason, you need a dedicated room, often called a data centre. You might also want to invest in adiabatic data centre cooling to keep the room cool, as it will get very hot. Oh, and make sure you secure the room, too. You don’t want just anyone messing with cables when it comes to your server.
Isn’t The Cloud A Better Alternative?
In recent years, the power of the cloud has led to this question being asked. In most cases, servers still offer more possibilities over the cloud in its current form. That being said, the best option for your business is to combine the two. They both have plenty of positives, but we’d still pick the server if we had to choose just one.
So They’re Kind Of A Necessity, Right?
Definitely. The problem with trying to run a business without a centralised system is that you open it up to all sorts of dangers. Viruses can make their way through. Data can be corrupted or lost. It’s the sort of thing that has the potential to destroy a business with ease. Servers aren’t cheap, but you won’t come across many businesses that aren’t willing to pay for them. That’s how important they are.
Hopefully, we’ve been able to simplify this decision for you, and educate you a little further on the subject. Ultimately, the final decision is in your hands.
This article was provided by ellie jo