On-site servers often act as the central hub of the office. This provides employees with a convenient way to access files over a shared connection, and allow you to create reliable backups of your data. When purchasing a server, one of the first options you’ll have available to you is whether to go for a new unit or a refurbished one. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
The Benefits of Buying New
When you decide to purchase a brand new server, you’ll have the option of buying the most powerful and advanced servers on the market. Like any piece of technology, manufacturers aim to improve their products over time. You can expect advancements in everything from performance and reliability in the latest models. Since these units have yet to be used, you can expect them to be in perfect working order. This means that, in theory, they should have a longer lifespan and shouldn’t present any problems compared to previously used models. They should, for optimum longevity, be kept secured in custom server racks and cleaned and maintained regularly. It also depends on where in your office you place these servers and if they have proper ventilation.
But coming back to the point, buying the latest and greatest won’t come cheap. You can expect to pay a premium over a refurbished unit, even with the same specifications. If your server is a fundamental part of your business, and you require the most robust technical infrastructure possible, you should consider buying new. If you’re a small business working on a budget, though, you may want to explore your other options.
Shopping in the Refurbished Market
For many businesses, shopping in the refurbished market is their only option. Since servers are typically made with more reliable components than typical desktop PCs, you can still expect to find quality products available to you. Contrary to popular belief, refurbished servers have not necessarily been defective in the past. These could instead have been used on the shop floor for demonstration purposes, suffered from cosmetic damage during shipping, or were simply returned under the 30-day return policy due to buyer’s remorse.
However, that’s not to say that buying refurbished doesn’t have its share of disadvantages. Statistically, you are more likely to run into problems, so you’ll have to take into account the initial savings compared to any future maintenance fees. Likewise, when purchasing refurbished servers, your options will be more limited when compared to buying new. Suppliers such as Pinnacle Data stock a large and continually updating range, so you’re sure to find what you need in short time.