Benefits of a Rack Mounted Server
What is a rack server used for? The answer has less to do with aesthetics and much more to do with your server’s performance than you may realize.
The most important components of the majority of IT infrastructures are the servers that allow users to create, share and access data through networked systems. However, it’s computer racks that protect your technology investment and support the proper operation and optimization of your servers.
Granted, you could simply line up or stack servers on a large table and hope for the best. However, you’re likely to have overheating and performance issues, unlike rack hubs of well-positioned servers. For this reason, placing and arranging your servers is of utmost importance.
Types of Racks
Clearly, for your tech-savvy company, choosing the right computer racks for an operating environment is an important decision to get right. No one wants to run the risk of a costly tower of technology toppling or overheating.
While most well-built racks can safely hold anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 pounds of equipment, their individual designs can differ greatly. So let’s take a look at some of the most popular types of server racks as well as some of their specialty applications.
Some of the most basic racks feature a two-post design that can be attached to the floor and even anchored to a wall for more support. Two-post racks — also referred to as relay racks — are most commonly used for telecommunications and network equipment such as firewalls, routers and switches.
With far more options and flexibility, four-post racks offer spaces for keyboard trays, shelving and even monitor stands. And while both two- and four-post racks come in open frame designs, there are also closed designs — or cabinet enclosures — that offer superior security and airflow capabilities.
In addition, to safely handling a certain amount of weight, specially designed seismic racks can help keep critical equipment safe in earthquake-prone areas.
Benefits of Racks
Computer rack servers offer many benefits that other IT equipment storage options simply can’t match. Here are some of the most common reasons today’s data centers and computer rooms opt for racks for their network equipment:
- Better access and organization: Whether it’s tracking down an issue or updating existing equipment, when your servers are easily accessible and in one location, it saves you both time and aggravation. Plus, with all cords, cables and other connectors organized and together, it makes maintenance and troubleshooting far more efficient.
- Improved airflow: The number one reason for employing racks has to do with their ability to keep equipment evenly spaced without creating any airflow obstructions. Some enclosed racks even provide the option of adding external cooling systems for superior equipment ventilation.
- Increased security: Along with organizing expensive IT equipment in one location, enclosed racks with locking mechanisms are a prime choice for businesses where security is an issue. Whether you need protection from cleaning staff or unwarranted users, with a locked rack, your IT equipment’s physical accessibility remains under your control.
A Vendor-Neutral Approach to Your Data Center Issues With DataSpan
It’s a fact: More than half of the Fortune 1000 are pleased clients of DataSpan. With our expertise and customized technology solutions, we can help solve the IT and data management issues of all sizes of businesses.
To learn more about rack-mounted servers and related IT infrastructures, find your nearest rep or contact us today.
