Planning Your Server Room

AUDIO TOWERS

Tips for Planning Your Server Room

In setting up a server room for your computer network, there are two important things to bear in mind: security and effectiveness.

You can spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars toward the best equipment but if you fail to house your server and related equipment in a suitable environment, you can end up shortening its lifespan — or worse, damaging your server.

Determining the Ideal Location for Servers

There are a few critical factors that you need to consider in determining a suitable place for your server.

First, you have to ensure that there is sufficient room for the area that will house your servers. That does not simply mean that the area you choose should have enough space for the equipment. You should also leave ample room for access to the cables of the computers.

If space is not an issue, it is highly recommended that you add another computer in the server room. This computer can be used for the configuration of the internet access, performance monitoring, and other tasks.

Prior to the installation of the server, it is a good idea to draw up a basic layout of the room. It does not need to be complicated but it should be highly detailed. Highlight the location of each component of the system and label each cable.

Designing Your Server Room

In planning the room, the first thing that you need to do is to get a fair idea of the space you will require. Make sure that you also take into account the space requirements of cabinets and racks. It is also highly recommended that you put a chair, table, and storage in the server room. Finally, remember to make allowances for the addition of new equipment in the future.

Then, go back to your initial plan for the room. When you have a clear layout for the room, the next thing that you need to do is to reconfigure the electrical set up of the room. Perhaps, you may need new electrical outlets or an upgrade of the ventilation. Enlist the help of an electrician or an HVAC professional if modifications need to be done.

Once the setup is complete, make sure that your staff knows that the room you have chosen now houses the server and is no longer used for its former function. Finally, make sure that access to the room is limited to prevent problems later on.

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