Without your server, the rest of your programs and devices won’t have their functionality. Servers are more reliable and robust than traditional desktops, and the client-server model makes the most sense for many businesses. When you use a server, you depend on your computer network for many of your company’s functions.
The server can perform all its necessary functions 24 hours a day, including managing, storing and processing data. When your server is experiencing problems, and especially when it goes down, your entire business can suffer. Your reputation may suffer, too, because even a short break may lead customers to believe you aren’t reliable.
You may be able to avoid most or all of your server problems by having server support monitored and making sure your servers have the latest updates. Here are the best reasons to keep your servers up-to-date:
1. Identify and diagnose problems at the beginning stages
Even if your equipment is brand new, there might be a small problem, such as a defective moving part that still somehow made it through the assembly line. Monitoring your system with both electronic and human eyes can help you detect small discrepancies, so you can recognize and hopefully fix these kinds of small problems in the beginning stages.
This will save money on equipment, because small problems inevitably cause more extensive issues. It will also keep you from having to correct any errors that occur because of the problem.
2. Protect your equipment and software from malware and viruses
This is a hot topic right now, because so many data breaches have made the news in the last few years. With the increasing reliance on computers to perform most business functions, it was inevitable that unethical individuals would target companies and attempt to steal customer information.
There are several tasks which must be done routinely to keep your computer system safe. When vulnerabilities are discovered, patches must be applied to the software applications and other technologies affected. The best secure connection must be chosen and monitored, with appropriate firewalls on all endpoints.
3. Data Back-up
You probably take it for granted, but data is perhaps the most critical aspect of your computer. You can always replace a computer or its parts, but your information is unique, and once it’s lost, it cannot be replaced. Hardware failure or data corruption can cause long-lasting problems if the data is permanently lost.
You can choose a storage solution for your servers so that your current and newest data is always being backed up, so that if anything ever happens, it can be safely and quickly restored. This isn’t just good for your business but important if you ever face an audit or need to prepare taxes.
4. You want to be competitive
Face it; you need to stay ahead of the game if you’re going to be better, faster and smarter than your competition. By keeping your servers and other computer equipment up-to-date, you are giving yourself an edge over anyone who is sticking with older versions.
Some innovations make your server safer, while others help you work more efficiently. You don’t want to miss out on anything that could make a difference for your business. The technicians doing your server and workstation support need to be involved in the computer industry, so they know about new and improved services.
5. Increase the lifespan of your servers
Even though it happens in the background, you probably realize that setting up a server can be laborious and time-intensive. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your servers, while saving you the time, work and money it would take to replace your equipment and software and move all your data to new equipment.
Server failure can cause its problems, including an inability to work and lost data. It just makes sense to help your servers last as long as possible. All machines with moving equipment will wear down over time, and security is bound to become outdated. But you can be frugal with your system.
Server Maintenance Plans
Every business is different, with different needs. You may only need to back up your data every week, or you might need to do it daily. You might also have different security and communication needs.
ACT Networks is a place where businesses in Chicago, IL can go to get professional, reliable workstation and server support. We can handle Windows, Linux, and all other operating systems. Our technicians have experience with all kinds of hardware, including Dell, Lenovo, HP and all makes and models of desktop workstations and network servers. When you have services you can trust, you can recover before your customers ever discover anything went wrong.
