Tips on How to Improve Server Infrastructure

Anticipating the IT resources that are necessary for current and future company requirements is an ongoing and challenging responsibility for IT professionals.  The most difficult part of implementing new applications is the knowledge that your existing server environment may or may not be able to accommodate them.

If servers are utilized efficiently then implementation may be possible.  However, the challenge you face with an older server infrastructure involves  servers which are utilized inefficiently the majority of the time. This makes implementation of new applications a complex and tedious process.

Thanks to new technologies there are ways to improve server infrastructure so it is scalable which allows you to utilize the server resources more efficiently while cutting costs.  If you are struggling with an older IT environment here are a few pointers on how to improve the server infrastructure:

Group Servers Together

 Most of the older server environments do not utilize their full capacity which leaves hardware resources that are sitting idle.  When you consolidate servers together through virtualization you pool the hardware resources to improve server productivity while reducing IT and maintenance costs.

Deploy Virtual Clustering

 When you implement high availability applications the conventional approach is to construct a physical cluster.  This allows the applications to tap into resources on multiple servers.  The problem with this approach is hardware costs and other expenses associated with making the necessary modifications.

By deploying a virtual cluster it allows all of the hardware resources to be utilized as opposed to the usual 50 percent.  Additionally, the applications which operate on a virtual machine do not have to search for the server resources.  Instead a program such as Hyper-V will automatically delegate in an existing Hyper-V  environment which increases efficiency and eliminates the costs of additional hardware and modifications.

Implement SharePoint Virtualization

 If you have a server environment in a company that includes remote offices this can present a challenge for IT infrastructure, especially if the remote environment is incapable of hosting multiple  servers.  Additionally, these sites are usually void of IT personnel.  By deploying SharePoint Virtualization remote office workers can access applications via their web browser while IT personnel maintain the server environment from the primary company location.

Setup a Hyper-V Enterprise Class Environment

 Conventional server infrastructures which utilize an Enterprise Class Level Environment tend to have excess hardware to support applications which are critical to business operations. By setting up a Hyper-V Enterprise Class Level Environment you can eliminate excess hardware by creating three different virtual environments to carry out necessary development, quality assurance, and production processes.

These are a few ways to improve an existing server infrastructure to place resources where they are needed the most.  There is a host of other virtualization technologies that will help you to accomplish critical business goals and objectives in a more efficient and cost effective manner.

If you are trying to find ways to improve your existing server infrastructure, contact Thrive Networks today to learn more about virtualization and cloud computing options.