What's likely to fail first?

[iolair]

Normally, we are able to change out servers every 3 to 5 years. We have had budget restrictions the past few years, and I'm wondering if anyone can tell me what is likely to fail first on a server.

Suppose that you didn't have to upgrade software at all, and so a machine would be compatible forever. Why would you replace a server? If it's a disk failure, could you just replace the hard drives every five years, and use the machine indefinitely, or are there other issues?

Iolair MacWalter

 

[Shady66]

Our shop has all Compaq servers. Usually it is going to be a Power supply or a disk drive that will fail. We have had a couple servers over the five year limit...admitted, they are not running major apps, but still chug along.

only problem with just replacing drives is that as servers are redesigned so are the drives...most drives today are designed for specific server ranges. in five years might be pretty hard to find drives for your 5 year old server.

Besides, as software is upgraded, the requirements are increasing more and more on the systems..i.e. (Memory, Proc speed, NIC speed

Lead, Follow of get the %&*#%$ out of the way !!

 

[TheLad]

You will always be required to upgrade your operating system software because the older Operating Systems go unsupported and if a problem was to arise which left you without the support of Microsoft for example, your company could loose thousands if not millions whilst the problem is resolved.

As for newer Operating Systems, they are becoming more processor intensive hence the need for newer faster hardware, and also more diskspace is being used for the storing of critical business files which explains the need for more diskspace.

As the technology gets better, the prices of Compaq/HP servers (for example) have come down in price a lot over the last 5 years or so making it cheaper to upgrade hardware.

As for what parts fail, hard disks is always a good start but other components can fail depending on the housing conditions of the server (eg dusty environment can cause more failures).

A company realistically just has to meet the IT needs of the business at that particular time.

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"It's true, its damn true!"
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[Walter349]

I look after 2500 servers. PSUs and HDDs are the definate favourite for failures.

 

[iolair]

Thanks to all who responded. These are all good arguments I can use to "present my case" for new hardware to the business office. Thanks.

Iolair MacWalter