How Do I Start a Dedicated Server?
Most of us don't think much about servers, but they are the hub that makes our electronic world go around. Whether a web server providing server space to thousands of websites, or a corporate server responsible for holding office files, our lives today heavily depend on servers.
A dedicated server is one that is owned by a hosting company and leased to an individual client, allowing the customer absolute control over the server environment. If you plan to start a dedicated server to provide hosting services to a client or clients, you need to know their needs.
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Instructions
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Interview the client about their server sizing needs. If they plan to use the server to host an enterprise application, for example, know the specifications of that application. For example, if the application minimally requires 10 GB of RM, 200 GB of hard disk space and a 2 Ghz processor, you would want to purchase a physical server and supporting operating system that ideally exceeds these requirements.
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Ask the client about the operating system required. Most enterprise applications require a Unix server such as Solaris or Linux. These are standard applications that allow reuse.
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Choose a physical server that allows for modification and has a reliable warranty. If your current client contract ends, you want a server that supports reuse. When you purchase the server, check the hardware flexibility. Many server types allow addition of RAM, or allow you to swap out the hard disk (though you cannot swap out hard disk space). While these are expensive upgrades, they increase your ability to be flexible for other clients.
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Purchase your physical server and your operating system separately. Many physical servers support different operating system types. Major brands include "Intel" and "HP." Shop around for your servers to get a discounted price.
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Tips & Warnings
A physical server is the hardware on which the operating system sits; however, in the computer industry "server" is often used to describe both the physical hardware and the operating system that sits on it.
Server management requires an extensive skill set, and physical server management is a unique skill as is operating system management. If you do not have the domain knowledge to manage the type of server you are purchasing, hire such an expert.
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- Photo Credit stock illustration of computer server icon image by Ruslana Stovner from Fotolia.com
