Tag: hardware

  • Server in IT Infrastructure: Types, Trends and Selection Guide

    Server in IT Infrastructure: Types, Trends and Selection Guide

    In today’s digital world, a server plays key roles in any IT infrastructure. Servers power websites, apps, manage data storage and business networks. Whether hosted on-site, or in the cloud, modern servers are fast, scalable, and reliable. Businesses of all sizes use them to stay connected and run smoothly. Let’s learn more.

    In this Article

    What are Servers?

    A server is a specialized computer, or software system in an IT infrastructure that provides data, resources and/or services to other computers called ‘clients’, over a network. Example scenarios: Offices where employees access files from a central location; providing online services to users in a network; hosting an application for a specific department in an office.

    Types of Servers

    1. Tower Servers

    These are computer servers housed in upright, standalone server rack cabinets. Tower servers look like desktop personal computers (PCs). It’s easy to deploy them, but needs more space while scaling up. A tower server is ideal for small businesses, or branch office IT infrastructure.

    Picture of a Tower server

    2. Rack Servers

    Rack server a.k.a rack-mounted server is a type of server designed for installing in a standardized rack frame. Typically, rack servers are 19 inches wide. As you scale up, you can stack several servers vertically. They offer good airflow and cable management. Generally, rack servers are found in data centers and enterprise environments. 

    picture of a Rack server

    3. Blade Servers

    Blade servers are modular, high-density servers designed to save power and space. They are thin, stripped-down systems that slide into a shared blade enclosure (chassis), which provides centralized power, cooling, networking and management. Blade servers are for complex or high-performance IT environments like data centres that achieve more using less space. 

    4. Edge Servers

    Edge servers are specialized servers that operate at the edge of an IT network. Meaning, they are placed closer to end-users, or data sources for faster data processing with least latency. Typically, edger servers work in tandem with a main data center, and process, store and deliver data locally. This avoids back and forth sending of information to the data center or central cloud. Edge servers are common in healthcare, manufacturing industries and smart cities.

    Computing system having edge servers

    5. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) Servers

    These are high-performance computing servers having graphics processing units (GPUs) alongside traditional central processing units (CPUs) in them. Unlike CPUs that do sequential task execution, GPUs can handle thousands of tasks simultaneously. GPU servers are ideal for doing complex, compute-intensive tasks that require massive parallel processing and deep learning. Generally, they are used in workloads involving artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and data analytics. 

    picture of a GPU server

    6. Virtual & Cloud Servers

    These are software-defined servers hosted on physical machines, or in the cloud. They offer scalability, flexibility and cost-efficiency. When unsure of how much computing power you would need, or scaling up based on computing or storage demand, cloud servers come handy.

    representative image of cloud server computing

    Choosing the right Server for your Business

    Choosing the right server for your business IT infrastructure depends on your potential workload, budget and scalability needs.
    Here’s a quick matrix to help you make an informed decision:

    Selection CriteriaSuitable Server
    1. Small office, or Low trafficTower Server
    2. Growing businessRack Server with RAID 10
    3. AI (artificial intelligence) or ML (machine learning) workloadsGPU (graphics processing unit) server, or Cloud GPU (cloud-based/virtual machine with access to GPU resources)
    4. Real-time edge processingEdge Server
    5. Budget-conscious scale upVirtual or Cloud Server
    6. High-density data centerBlade Server

    Also consider these important aspects

    • Security: 
      It’s better to have servers with built-in trusted platform modules (TPM). TPMs are  security chips embedded in modern motherboards/CPUs. They secure boot, provide cryptographic functions, and integrate your data loss prevention (DLP) and mobile device management (MDM) measures. In effect, you get a layered security architecture that ensures device integrity at startup, data encryption, security policy enforcement, and centralized control over endpoints.
    • Redundancy: 
      To ensure redundancy and seamless operations, consider your RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) levels, have two independent power supplies and failover clustering (for automatic transfer of workload to another node in case of a failover) in place.
    • Cooling: 
      Keeping your server and other IT infrastructure in cool temperatures is crucial to maintain its efficient performance and longevity. Depending on your server density, choose between air and liquid cooling. Compared to air cooling, liquid cooling is more efficient. It enables better heat management, lesser energy use and supports high performance workloads in compact spaces.
    • Emergence of ARM-based servers:
      Currently, ARM or Advanced RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) Machine-based servers are disrupting the dominance of x86 series processors in hyperscale and cloud-based IT environments. ARM based servers are high-performing as well as energy efficient.
    • Expansion of edge computing:
      Recently, edge servers are becoming critical in latency-sensitive applications. In 2025, 75% of business data is expected to be processed by edge computing (where data processing is done closer to the data source).
    • AI-enhanced server management:
      Artificial Intelligence (AI) is taking up server management processes like predictive maintenance, automated scaling and anomaly detection. That helps reduce downtimes and human errors.
    • Composable infrastructure:
      It’s an IT framework where software manages compute, storage and networking resources based on workload demands. Composable infrastructure boosts agility and efficiency of resource utilization and IT operations.
    • Sustainability Focus:
      Today, more and more organizations are emphasizing on meeting their environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. In this context, green data centers are gaining popularity. Sustainability aspects like renewable energy use, recyclable hardware, efficient cooling are becoming priorities now.
    • Adoption of liquid cooling:
      These days liquid cooling is replacing traditional air cooling as server density grows. Liquid cooling systems use liquid coolant to keep your hardware cool. Like mentioned earlier, liquid cooling is more efficient and reduces energy costs.

    More about Servers

    1. Difference between Servers and Personal computers(PCs)?

    Personal computers (PCs) are used by individuals to do personal level tasks. PCs come with basic level central processing units (CPUs), random access memory (RAM) and single power supplies. On the other hand, servers are advanced computer systems to do business operations. Servers have superior CPUs, error correcting code (ECC) memory and redundant power supplies. They can work 24/7, doing thousands of tasks simultaneously.

    2. What is Server Uptime?

    Server uptime refers to the amount of time a server stays operational without network interruptions or downtimes. Maintaining high server uptime (e.g. 99.999% uptime) is crucial for businesses providing uninterrupted services 24/7. 

    3. What is Virtualization in Servers?

    Server virtualization is the process of dividing a single physical server into multiple independent virtual servers using specialized software called hypervisor. Virtualization improves network resource utilization and scalability.

    4. How do Servers contribute to Sustainability?

    Modern servers support energy-efficient IT designs, dynamic power management and are often part of composable or cloud-based IT infrastructures. Sustainability focus helps organizations reduce their hardware wastage and carbon footprint.

    Final Thoughts

    In IT infrastructure, the server landscape is evolving rapidly. Traditional servers are giving way to advanced architectures that support modern workloads like AI, big data analytics and IoT(internet of things). 

    In this article, we have discussed different types of servers, how to choose the right server for your business and recent trends in the server market now.

    Whether you’re setting up a new office, or optimizing existing IT infrastructure, being updated helps in prudent decision making. To have a resilient and future-ready IT setup in your business.

    🌞Stay ahead in IT infrastructure. Choose the right servers and future-proof your business. Share your thoughts in the comments!

  • VoIP or IP Telephones for Future-proof Business Communication

    VoIP or IP Telephones for Future-proof Business Communication

    In today’s digital world, businesses and individuals rely on seamless communication to stay connected. VoIP or IP telephones are becoming a preferred choice, especially for business communications. They offer advanced features, flexibility and cost effective solutions for companies of all sizes. Let’s find out more.

    In this Article

    What is VoIP or IP Telephone

    An IP telephone system aka VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) enables voice communication over the internet, instead of circuit-switched landline networks. It converts voice signals into digital packets, and then transmits them over an internet connection. This technology removes the need for physical phone lines.

    How IP telephone(VoIP) system works

    IP telephony operates using packet-switched technology, where voice data is broken into small packets and transmitted over the internet. These packets are then reassembled at the receiving end, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication.
    Generally, an IP telephone system or VoIP includes the following components:

    1. PBX (Private Branch Exchange): 
      This is the brain of a VoIP system. PBX is a digital switchboard that manages all internal and external calls in the network. It receives, and directs all communications based on the setup. PABX is usually placed inside a server rack cabinet.
    2. Softphones:
      These are software applications enabling calls from computers or mobile devices. They include computer-based browsers or applications, or mobile phone apps. 
    3. IP Phones: 
      They are phones designed for internet-based calling. They may look like traditional phones, but are different.
      There are 3 main types of IP phones: 
      • Reception phones- They have extensions to forward calls
      • Basic staff phones- Providing basic call functionality
      • Manager level phones- Come with additional audio/video conferencing facility

    IP phones connect to voice points on the office floor or faceplates on walls via Cat6 patch cables. One end of these cables are inside patch panels in rack cabinets, and the other, at the user end faceplates. Through the Cat6 cables, switches send power and voice data to IP phones.

    Features of IP Telephones(VoIP)

    IP telephony or VoIP have many features that enable efficient communications:

    • Advanced call management: 
      Features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, auto attendants and conference calling to improve work productivity.
    • Flexibility: 
      With an internet connection, people can make and receive calls over VoIP from anywhere in the world. This helps businesses to hire, and stay connected with remote workforces.
    • Integration with other systems: 
      IP telephony can integrate with other work related systems like CRM software, email platforms and other collaboration tools. This can lead to unified communications.
    • Scalability: 
      In VoIP systems, adding or removing users is easy. No need for extensive infrastructure changes.
    • Cost Savings: 
      Traditional landline calls incur charges by telecom companies. VoIP helps businesses cut costs of phone line rentals and call charges. Here, employees can talk to each other merely by dialing an extension. Free calls are possible whether they are in different offices within a country, or abroad.

    Final Thoughts

    VoIP or IP telephones are revolutionizing the way businesses connect. With  advanced features, easy integration and cost efficiency, VoIP is a future-proof communication solution. Irrespective of business size or location, it’s a great tool to add to your communication infrastructure. 

    Are you considering switching to an IP telephone system? We can help you set it up in your office. Let’s know your comments. 

  • IT Network Patch Panels: Benefits, Types and Setup Tips

    In the world of structured cabling and IT networking, there are active and passive components. Patch panels are one of the passive components, playing a crucial role in organizing and managing network connections. 

    Whether in data centers, business or home networks, patch panels streamline cable management, improve troubleshooting and enhance overall network performance. Let’s learn more about patch panels, their benefits, types and best practices for installation.

    In this Article

    What are patch panels

    Patch panels are hardware that act as centralized hubs for IT network cables. In other words, data cables going to a server rack cabinet are punched into a patch panel. A panel has ports to connect incoming and outgoing cables. Instead of running cables directly to a networking equipment (eg. switch), a patch panel consolidates connections. Thus managing and modifying network configurations becomes easier.

    Patch panels are common in Local Area Networks(LANs), data centers and telecommunications infrastructure.

    Why use patch panels

    • Improved cable management–
      Patch panels organize cables neatly. By eliminating clutter they reduce tangling and related damages.
    • Enhanced network flexibility–
      These panels reconfigure connections without rewiring the entire IT setup. So, network modifications become easy and seamless.
    • Simplified troubleshooting–
      Patch panels create structured IT network layouts. That makes identifying and resolving connectivity issues faster and efficient.
    • Cost-effective solution–
      The panels reduce wear and tear of network cables. It leads to reduced replacement costs. Plus long-term reliability of IT setups.
    • Scalability for future expansion–
      Businesses can connect new devices into their existing IT network without disruptions. This flexibility allows easy implementation of future expansion plans. 

    Types of patch panels

    Patch panels come in various designs, each catering to specific networking needs. Different types of them are:

    1. Ethernet Patch Panels

    • These panels act as receiving hardware units in structured cabling for data networks.
    • Designed for Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a and Cat7 cables. 
    • Available in punch-down or keystone jack configurations- usually referred to as loaded or unloaded patch panels. 
    • A loaded patch panel is best if you plan to use all the ports. Whereas if you need only a few ports, an unloaded panel is suitable. In that case, punch the panel in a keystone jack for future expansions. If any port gets damaged, unloaded panels offer the flexibility of re-punching in a vacant spot.

    2. Fiber Optic Patch Panels

    • These are essential hardware in data centers and high-bandwidth applications.
    • Used for high-speed data transmission over fiber optic cables.
    • Support single-mode and multi-mode fiber connections. Single mode fiber is used for long distance data transmission, and multi-mode fiber for shorter distances. 

    3. Audio/Video Patch Panels

    • These are ideal in multimedia setups like studios, business conference rooms etc. 
    • Designed for AV(audio/video) signal routing.
    • Support several formats like HDMI(High Definition Multimedia Interface), coaxial and more.

    Best practices in patch panel installation

    • Label each port– 
      Mark each port connection clearly. That simplifies identification, segregate cables enabling easy maintenance and troubleshooting.
      Organizations use different naming schemas based on their VLAN types. For example, many use letters D1, D2, D3 to mark data points; V1, V2, V3 for voice points and C1, C2, C3 for CCTVs.
    • Use cable management accessories– 
      While setting up network systems, use cable management accessories like cable ties, trays and organizers for a tidy setup. Moreover, they reduce strain on connectors.
    • Ensure proper ventilation– 
      Maintain airflow around the panel to avoid overheating. For that, allow enough space between patch panels and equipment. 
      Use perforated doors or vented enclosures to enhance cooling for optimal network performance.
    • Test connections regularly– 
      Inspect network connections periodically for signs of wear or looseness; and test signal integrity. Regular checks help prevent downtimes and ensure reliable network performance.
    • Provisions for future growth–
      Use patch panels with extra ports allowing future expansion as network demands grow.
      Beyond extra ports, consider high-performance panels supporting higher data speeds. All that saves time and replacement costs later.

    Tips & Suggestions

    As always, making informed decisions saves time, energy and money in the long run. Here are some suggestions for you while using patch panels in your business IT setup. 

    • While selecting patch panels for your IT room, first think about how many devices will come in your network. Based on that, go for either 24 or 48 port patch panels. 
    • Select modular design panels that offer easy upgrade options for future network expansion. 
    • Choose patch panels with built-in cable management features.  
    • If your network is prone to interference, consider a shielded patch panel to improve signal integrity.

    Final Thoughts

    Patch panels are essential components in modern IT networks. They offer organization, flexibility and efficiency to the networks.

    We have seen the benefits of using patch panels, their different types, and best practices in using patch panels while setting up business IT networks.

    Whether a small office network, or a large data center, well-structured patch panel systems enhance network connectivity and performance greatly.

    🌞Got thoughts or tips on using patch panels? Drop your comments below. We’d love to hear from you!

  • Understanding RAID for Data Storage and Protection

    In today’s digital space, data storage is critical for both individuals and businesses. Losing important files due to hardware failures means big trouble. Monetary loss, loss of sensitive info or/and downtimes in business operations. This is where the Redundant Array of Independent Disks or RAID for data storage and protection comes in. 

    In this Article

    What is RAID?

    RAID or Redundant Array of Independent Disks is a data storage technology that combines multiple hard drives into single units. That improves performance, fault tolerance and data redundancy. Moreover RAID solutions secure data in case of hard disk failures. They are commonly used in data centers and server farms.

    While assessing data storage needs, you may think about how many hard disks you need plus their storage capacity. Let’s say, if you buy 3 hard disks with 1TB storage capacity per disk, you get a total 3TB storage space, right? Not really. 

    You need to consider which RAID you want to use. Based on that, calculate the number of disks and usable storage capacity you want. For example, if you want 3TB storage with RAID 5, consider 1.5TB* 3 HDD instead of 1TB* 3 HDD. Depending on the RAID system used, your usable data will differ. 

    Here is a RAID calculator for you to calculate RAID capacity, disk space utilization, cost per usable TB and more.

    Why use RAID?

    If you are thinking of implementing new, or upgrading existing data storage solutions, RAID is a powerful tool. Whether you are managing a NAS system at home or office, enterprise servers, or data centers, RAID offers these advantages-

    1. Data Redundancy:
      Main advantage of RAID is data redundancy. It duplicates data and stores its copies in different locations. As a result, data loss due to hard disk failures are avoided.
    2. Increased disk performance:
      RAID improves read/write speeds of HDD significantly, based on the RAID level used.
    3. Storage Optimization:
      Certain RAID levels use available storage space more efficiently. For example, RAID 5 stores parity data across drives and reduces wasting storage space. RAID 6 preserves storage space.

    About Common RAID Levels

    Common RAID levels in use are RAID 0, 1, 5, 6 and 10. Each RAID configuration offers unique advantages depending on your requirements.

    1. RAID 0 Maximum Speed, No Redundancy

    RAID 0 Configuration Diagram
    RAID 0 Configuration Diagram

    How RAID 0 works: 

    RAID 0 operates on a simple yet effective principle- striping. Striping is a technique used in RAID configurations to distribute data across multiple drives. Instead of storing entire data files on a single disk, RAID striping splits data into blocks, and writes them sequentially across all available drives in the array. Striping enhances RAID’s performance.

    Coming back to working of RAID 0, it splits data evenly across multiple drives. This system takes incoming data and divides it into equal-sized blocks. Then, the data gets  distributed evenly to all drives in the array.
    There’s no redundancy (such as mirroring or parity) in RAID 0. Hence, it has maximum read and write performance.

    RAID 0 is best for:

    RAID 0 is best suited for gaming, video editing and applications needing high-speed performance.

    Drawback of RAID 0: 

    A major downside of RAID 0 is its lack of fault tolerance. Since data is evenly spread across all drives without redundancy, even if just one drive fails, you lose all your data. RAID 0 doesn’t offer safeguard against hardware failure.

    2. RAID 1- Full Redundancy, Slower Speed

    RAID 1 Configuration Diagram
    RAID 1 Configuration Diagram

    How RAID 1 works: 

    RAID 1 and higher levels work on the principle of mirroring. It duplicates data across multiple drives to enhance fault tolerance and data protection. Mirroring adds redundancy to the RAID system. 

    RAID 1 duplicates data onto two drives. Each data piece written to the primary drive gets copied to a secondary drive simultaneously. If one drive fails, the system switches to the mirrored copy immediately. Since both drives have identical information, mirroring avoids data loss and offers high reliability.

    RAID 1 is best for: 

    RAID 1 system is ideal for businesses for storing their critical data, financial records and other business applications.

    Drawback of RAID 1:

    One drawback of RAID 1 is that it uses twice the storage space. Data mirroring, the key feature of RAID 1, requires twice the storage capacity. Mirroring duplicates every data and store on two hard drives.
    Example- A 1TB RAID 1 array needs two 1TB drives. You need 2 hard drives because the system recognizes only 1TB usable storage space due to mirroring.

    3. RAID 5- Balanced Speed and Fault Tolerance

    RAID 5 Configuration Diagram
    RAID 5 Configuration Diagram

    How RAID 5 works: 

    Striping with parity is the technique used in RAID 5. In striping, data is divided into chunks and stored across the hard disks, enhancing read and write speeds. In parity, a mathematical checksum is calculated and stored across the array. If a hard drive fails, the system reconstructs the lost data. Striping with parity feature balances storage performance, efficiency, and fault tolerance in the system.

    RAID 5 distributes data across multiple drives, with a parity block. Striping across several drives allows simultaneous access to different portions of the data. That boosts read and write performance compared to single-drive setups.

    RAID 5 is best for: 

    RAID 5 systems are best suited to small to medium businesses for efficient and secure data storage. 

    Drawbacks of RAID 5:

    • You need at least 3 hard drives for this system to work. 
    • RAID 5 has slower write performance. 

    4. RAID 6- Enhanced Redundancy

    RAID 6 Configuration Diagram
    RAID 6 Configuration Diagram

    How RAID 6 works: 

    RAID 6 uses a data protection mechanism-double parity. It strengthens redundancy of the system. In RAID 6, striping distributes data across all drives, boosting read performance. Two separate parity blocks ensure recovery from 2 simultaneous hard drive failures. In short, RAID 6 is similar to RAID 5, but with two parity blocks for extra data protection. 

    For example, you have RAID 5, and one hard disk fails. You then replace the faulty drive, and access your data. All good so far. But what if 2 disks fail at the same time? Yes, it can happen. That is where RAID 6 comes in with its double parity feature.

    RAID 6 is best for

    RAID 6 is perfect for enterprise level data storage with high reliability needs.

    Drawbacks of RAID 6: 

    • A downside of RAID 6 is that you need at least 4 hard drives to operate it. Otherwise, the system won’t work properly.
    • There is reduction in usable storage space. 

    5. RAID 10- Best of RAID 0 & RAID 1

    RAID 10 Configuration Diagram
    RAID 10 Configuration Diagram

    How RAID 10 works:

    RAID 10 (RAID 1+0) is a hybrid solution that improves upon RAID 0 and RAID 1. It combines striping and mirroring techniques adding both data redundancy and speed. 

    RAID 10 is best for:

    RAID 10 is a perfect data storage solution for server farms, gaming rigs and high-performance workstations.

    Drawbacks of RAID 10:

    • Requires at least 4 hard drives. With fewer than 4 drives, the system wouldn’t have enough storage to maintain effective striping and mirroring.
    • Costlier than other RAID setups. 

    Hardware RAID vs. Software RAID

    RAID systems can be implemented in two ways: hardware RAID, software RAID.

    • Hardware RAID:
      Hardware RAID uses a dedicated controller to manage its operations. This improves speed and stability of the system. The controller- a separate PCIe (PCI Express) card, or built into a server motherboard, manages operations independently from the system’s CPU.
    • Software RAID: 
      Software RAID is managed by its operating system. There’s no dedicated RAID controller here. This system doesn’t match the speed and reliability of a hardware RAID  system. But, it’s a cost-effective way for data redundancy and disk management.

    Hardware RAID offers superior reliability for big business environments and professional workloads. At the same time, software RAID is perfect for personal uses and small-scale applications.

    Choosing the right RAID level for you

    Selecting the best RAID configuration depends on your  needs. Ask yourself, what type of data you want to store, your write speed, and how fast you want to read it. Accordingly, consider your performance, redundancy and data protection, storage efficiency vs. protection, budget and hardware constraints. 

    • For speed and gaming- RAID 0
    • For data backup and security- RAID 1
    • For business storage efficiency- RAID 5 or RAID 6
    • For maximum reliability and speed- RAID 10

    Quick Tip: 

    If data security is your highest priority, opt for RAID 6 or RAID 10, rather than RAID 5 or RAID 0. They provide better fault tolerance and reduce risks of data loss. 

    Final Thoughts

    RAID is an essential technology in data storage and DLP. It ensures data integrity, high-speed performance and system reliability. RAID systems offer fault tolerance, consistent performance, minimal downtimes, redundancy for data protection for businesses. That’s how RAID ensures seamless business operations 24/7.

    RAID, available in different configurations, offers a balance of speed, redundancy, and fault tolerance. RAID 10 excels in speed and fault tolerance, while RAID 6 provides superior protection against multiple drive failures. 

    Hardware RAID with dedicated controllers enhances performance and stability, while software RAID, managed by the operating system, is a cost-effective alternative. 

    Choosing the right RAID for you depends on factors like performance needs, redundancy, and your budget. Whether you’re a business safeguarding sensitive files, or an individual optimizing storage setup, investing in the right RAID level can make a big difference.

    Are you considering setting up RAID on your system? Let’s know if you need expert recommendations based on your requirements! Drop a comment below.