If you have a small business with limited server needs and want to manage them all in-house, a server room would be essential for you. Here, you can store and operate your servers, while being able to centrally access and manage your organization’s network, house and execute applications with large databases, and so on.
A server room will be an important physical space in your office as the hub for all IT infrastructure and operations that support your business. That is why, in addition to choosing the right kind of servers, power distribution units, and backup power sources, it is important to consider these important factors before you set it up.
Finding the right location
It might be tempting to convert just about any spare room in the office for housing your servers. However, you must consider the amount of hardware you plan to deploy in it and compare it with the building structure’s capacity since all server room equipment will be heavy and require heavy-duty racks to place them in. If possible, try to assign a room that isn’t attached to an exterior wall, to prevent physical breaches.
Determining the size of the room
Do you plan to expand your server room or upgrade your equipment in the near future? Factor in these requirements before you decide the size of the server room. Despite being a “small” server room, it will also need to have enough space for your team to conveniently work in during regular maintenance or troubleshooting.
Organizing the space
Space will be a constraint in a small server room, so it is important to set up storage units that will allow for maximized usage. Wall-mount cabinets that take up no floor space may be a good choice for you. Server racks also come in a variety of U sizes, so consider all the options and choose the one that will help you optimally use the vertical height of the room. You can also read about more space-saving tips here.
Making provision for cooling
Servers and other equipment generate excessive heat. At the same time, uncontrolled temperatures can be damaging to components like switches and sockets. Therefore, choose a room with ample ventilation or one where an air-conditioning system can be put in place. When choosing a room, make sure that it has a minimum height of 12-18 feet so that you can raise the floor for better airflow. Here are some cost-effective cooling tips!
Prioritizing Security
A server room needs to be protected – from remote and physical breaches. Therefore, you need to set up an access control system (preferably using biometrics) that only allows entry only to authorized personnel. You also need to set up camera surveillance so that you can remotely monitor the room round the clock. Read more about securing your server racks here.
If you are unable to dedicate an entire room for your servers, you can start by dedicating a corner of your workspace for your servers and other network equipment. With the Secure Data Center from Hardy Racks, you can make sure that even this space is fully equipped for your server needs with all the security functionalities already in place.
For more details on Secure Data Center or for expert consultation on setting up your server room, get in touch with us today!