How To Choose the Best Server for A Small Business

Choosing the ideal server can be a real challenge, as it requires navigating through a vast number of options and factors. From type selection to server configurations can be an overwhelming task, leaving many entrepreneurs uncertain about where to begin. 

In this article, we'll present a comprehensive guide to picking the right small business server. With our expert insights and up-to-date knowledge, you'll find the perfect server solution.

Why Do You Need a Server for Your Small Business?

Before we dive into the intricacies of server selection, let's gain a clear understanding of the fundamental role a server plays in your business operations. At its core, a server is a powerful remote computer, constantly connected to the internet through high-speed gigabit ethernet. Think of it as the backbone of your company's IT infrastructure, providing a range of critical functions and services to support your day-to-day operations.

Here are some key functions that a small business server can serve:

• Secure Email Hosting
• File Sharing
• Hosting a Website or eCommerce Store
• SaaS App Hosting
• Supporting Multiple Virtual Servers
  
• Data Backup
• Document Storage and Collaboration
• Providing Virtual Desktops to Employees

A powerful server can handle multiple services simultaneously. There are advantages to distributing functions across smaller servers to minimize risks and improve efficiency.

By understanding the diverse roles a server can fulfill, you can accurately assess your business requirements and tailor your server choice to meet those specific needs.

Benefits of a Server for Your Small Business

A server can provide many benefits for your company, enhancing the overall efficiency and productivity of your operations. Here are some of the key advantages of having a dedicated server for your business:

• Centralized Data Storage and Backup: Store all important files in one secure location. Easy access and automated backups ensure data safety.
• Improved Performance and Productivity: Handle multiple tasks simultaneously, leading to faster operations and increased team productivity.
• Enhanced Security and Control: Implement robust security measures tailored to your needs. Monitor network activity to detect and prevent security threats.
• Reduced Costs and Complexity: Consolidate functions onto a single server, reducing IT infrastructure costs. Customize hardware and software as needed.
• Improved Collaboration and Communication: Centralized file sharing and real-time collaboration streamline teamwork. Communication tools facilitate smooth interactions.

Investing in a dedicated server can prove to be a strategic decision that can transform the way you operate and position your company for growth.

Choosing The Best Server For Small Business

With an understanding of the essential roles a small business server can play, let's look at how to choose the perfect solution that will fully meet your requirements.

Step 1: Research Server Specifications Based on Your Requirements

The first step in choosing the best server for your small business is to conduct thorough research on server specifications. Start by making a comprehensive list of all the applications and services you plan to run on the server. Consider both current and future needs, as scalability is essential for accommodating growth.

Once you have the list, assess the resources required for each application and how many users each application needs to serve. Head over to reliable sources and forums to find advice and tests conducted by experts. This way, you will know how much server resources these apps may consume.

Adding at least a 20% buffer to account for spikes in resource usage is a prudent practice. This extra headroom ensures your server can handle unexpected surges in demand without experiencing performance bottlenecks.

You have two options for conducting this analysis:

1. Independent Research:

You can dive into the vast pool of online resources, forums, and guides to gather insights into server specifications. But this method can take a lot of time and effort, especially if you are not well-versed in server technology.

2. Expert Server Consultation:

Visit our website and book a free consultation. Our experts will match you with the perfect solution based on your business requirements. 

Just as you would seek professional assistance for complex tasks like medical procedures, we’ll save you time, effort, and ensure you make an informed decision.

Step 2: Determine the Server Type

When choosing the right server type for your business, you have three main options to consider: owning a physical server, renting a dedicated server, or opting for cloud hosting. Each option comes with its own advantages and considerations, so it's crucial to evaluate your specific business needs before making a decision.

a) Physical Server: 

Owning a physical server grants you complete control over its configuration and hardware. This makes it an attractive choice for businesses with specific resource requirements and stringent security needs. You have the freedom to tailor the server to your exact specifications. However, this option involves significant upfront costs for purchasing the hardware and ongoing maintenance responsibilities. Managing a physical server also demands technical expertise, which may require dedicated IT staff.

b) Dedicated or Virtual Server Rental: 

Renting a dedicated server from a reputable hosting provider offers a cost-effective solution that mitigates the burden of hardware maintenance. With professional support provided by the hosting company, you can focus on your business without worrying about the infrastructure. This option suits businesses seeking a dedicated and scalable solution without the capital investment of owning physical hardware.

Some hosting providers offer the option of renting a physical server as a "virtual server" along with other clients. Despite some equipment limitations, this option remains a beneficial alternative, especially for small projects with budget constraints. It allows for easy scalability and the flexibility to adapt to different server types as your business evolves.

c) Virtual or Cloud Hosting: 

While virtual or cloud hosting may seem cost-effective, carefully consider its suitability for your business needs. It involves sharing computing power with other users, impacting reliability during peak usage. For simple projects like basic websites, it may suffice, but critical and complex applications may suffer from inconsistent performance.

Data security and privacy are crucial. Shared infrastructure raises concerns about data isolation, especially for sensitive information. Assess your requirements and risks. Determine if cost savings outweigh drawbacks in reliability, performance, and security before deciding.

Step 3: Consider Server Location

Now that you have explored the three main server options for your company, it's time to decide on the most suitable deployment method. You have two primary choices: setting up a server within your office (on-premises) or utilizing a data center provided by a hosting provider.

In the past, the geographical location of your server could impact channel throughput speed, leading to potential performance issues. However, with advancements in internet infrastructure and technology, such problems have become practically negligible. You no longer need to invest in physical servers to achieve high server access speed.

On-Premises Server:

Setting up a server within your office or business premises allows you to have direct physical access and complete control over the hardware. It can be a one-time investment, but it also involves costs for electricity, cooling, and hardware maintenance.

Data Center Hosting:

Opting for data center hosting means your server is housed in a remote data center managed by a hosting provider. Data center hosting providers offer various service levels, and you can choose from dedicated servers or virtual servers depending on your needs. If you intend to rent a server from a hosting provider, you have an array of options at your disposal. Data center hosting relieves you of the burden of hardware maintenance, and it typically comes with automatic backups, easy resource scaling and 24x7 expert support.

Whether you choose an on-premises server or a data center, advancements in technology have minimized the impact of geographical remoteness on server access speed. Renting a server grants you the flexibility to select the best data center location for your target audience, as well as access to full-time support and maintenance services.

Step 4: Calculate Your Server Budget

After assessing your business needs and deciding on the server type and deployment method, it's time to formulate a budget that aligns with your requirements and financial capacity. A well-thought-out spending plan ensures that you make a cost-effective investment that meets your business goals without overspending on unnecessary features. Here are some steps to help you calculate the expenses for your server project:

• Identify Your Server Requirements: List all necessary server specifications based on the applications and services you plan to run.
• Compare Costs: Compare the costs of different server options, including upfront hardware costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, and monthly fees for renting from a hosting provider.
• Evaluate Long-Term vs. Short-Term Costs: Consider both short-term and long-term costs, weighing upfront investments against potential savings over time
• Budget for Scalability: Allocate funds for future server upgrades or additions to accommodate business growth.
• Allocate for Support and Maintenance: Budget for 24x7 expert support and hardware maintenance provided by hosting providers, ensuring smooth server operation and minimal downtime.

Below we’ll show three hypothetical scenarios to demonstrate how different budget allocations can impact your server choices:

Scenario 1: Limited Budget for a Small Business Startup

Server Choice: Virtual Private Server (VPS)

In this example, a small business owner with a limited budget needs a reliable and scalable server solution. He decides to opt for a Virtual Private Server (VPS) provided by a reputable hosting provider. A VPS is a cost-effective intermediate solution between a dedicated server and shared hosting, making it an ideal choice for small businesses with a small budget.

Budget Allocation:

• Monthly VPS Hosting Fees: $15-$50 per month
• 24x7 Expert Support: Included in the hosting package

Scenario 3: High-Performance Demands for Resource-Intensive Applications

Server Choice: Physical Server

A business dealing with resource-intensive applications and high-performance demands opts for a physical server to ensure maximum processing power and performance. The organization is willing to make a higher upfront investment for a physical server to handle their demanding applications efficiently and get direct access to hardware. The ongoing expenses for IT staff and optional 24x7 expert support ensure their server remains operational at peak performance levels.

Budget Allocation:

• Physical Server Hardware: $2000-3000 (one-time investment)
• Cooling and Power Infrastructure: $500 (one-time investment)
• On-Premises IT Staff: $1000/month
• Electricity, Cooling, and Space Costs: $50-$100 per month

Remember, your server budget should align with your business requirements and growth plans. Carefully consider the different options available, assess the impact on your business operations, and seek professional advice if needed. A well-planned server budget can provide your business with the right infrastructure to thrive in the digital landscape.

Step 5. Buy/Order Your Server

a) Selecting a reputable vendor or supplier to purchase a physical server:

When purchasing a server for your small business, it's crucial to choose a reputable vendor or supplier to ensure quality hardware and reliable service. Consider these factors:

• Experience and Reputation: Look for vendors with a proven track record in the industry and positive customer reviews.
• Product Range: Opt for vendors offering a variety of server options and hardware customization
• Warranty and Support: Check the warranty and customer support policies to address any potential issues.
  
• Price and Value: Focus on getting the best value for your investment without compromising quality.

b) Choosing a Reliable Hosting Provider for Renting a Server:

If you opt for renting a server from a hosting provider, it's vital to select a reliable and reputable company. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a hosting provider:

• Server Uptime and Reliability: Ensure high uptime percentages (99.9% or higher) for uninterrupted access.
• Technical Assistance: 24x7 expert support is essential.
• Scalability and Resource Allocation: Choose a provider that can adjust resources as your needs change.
• Data Security and Backups: Look for robust security measures and regular data backups.
• Network Performance: located in the US, Europe, Australia based on the location of your target audience.
• Cost and Pricing Structure: Compare pricing plans with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
• Customer Reviews: Research customer reviews to gauge the provider's reputation.

By carefully considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can confidently purchase or rent a server that meets your small business's unique requirements. This ensures a powerful and efficient IT infrastructure that will contribute to the growth of your company.

Simplify Your Server Selection with INTROSERV

At INTROSERV, we focus on your needs and aim to make the process of choosing the perfect server for your business easier. With over 10,000 configurations and more than 100 pricing plans available, you can select the server that perfectly matches your unique requirements.

Our global presence is supported by data centers strategically located in 9 countries. This ensures optimal performance, fast access, and 99.9% uptime, providing you with the confidence that your customers will have access to your services whenever they need them.

What sets us apart is our team of experts, who are always ready to help. Our technical support works 24/7 to ensure uninterrupted server operation. With us as your trusted partner, you can focus on growing your business while we take care of your server needs.

Don't settle for less when it comes to IT infrastructure. Experience the difference of world-class reliable servers from INTROSERV.