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Have you ever wondered what would happen if the computer systems in your business suddenly stopped working? Imagine the frustration of losing important files, facing unexpected downtime, and the impact on your profits.Your IT server is like the powerhouse of your computer systems. It stores important files, manages data flow, and helps your business operate smoothly. But how do you know when to upgrade this crucial component?Servers can take weeks, even months, to build and program. If your server crashes unexpectedly, your business may be down until the server is replaced, losing thousands of dollars daily.WEBIT Services has provided IT strategy, service, and security expertise for over 25 years in the Chicago area.By reading this article, you will learn the signs that indicate your business may need a new IT server. Just like creating a safety net for your valuable data, knowing when it's time for a new IT server can save you from potential headaches.
If your computer systems are moving at a snail's pace, it could be a sign that your server is struggling to keep up. Just like an old car, servers can become less efficient over time. As your server memory fills up and parts age, your server will slow down.You may also notice slowdowns if your business has grown, requiring more activity from your server than it was created to accommodate. Slowdowns can mean it’s overloaded.If your business has expanded or your current server is outdated, it might be time for an upgrade. A new server can be built to suit your new needs, including updated applications and business growth.
Have you experienced unexpected system crashes or downtime? If your server frequently takes unexpected breaks, it can halt productivity, corrupt data, and damage your reputation. IT downtime can cost your business time and money. Servers should be reliable and steady because they’re foundational to your IT system. If your server starts glitching, it can take down your entire network. A new, reliable server can keep your systems running smoothly without those frustrating interruptions.
As your business grows, so does the amount of data you need to store. If you run out of server storage space, it's like trying to fit too many items into a small box – things start getting messy.A new server with more storage capacity ensures you have enough room for all your essential files and data.
If your server's security measures are outdated, your business is at risk of cyber threats. Servers are a goldmine of valuable data and ransoms for cybercriminals. By accessing a server, they can steal confidential information or lock up an entire system, holding it for ransom.IT security breaches aren’t just irritants; they can destroy a business. They can cost companies thousands, if not millions, in lost profits, damaged reputations, potential legal actions, and potential ransoms to (hopefully) remove ransomware.To combat security risks, server manufacturers release security updates. As a server ages, it won’t support new updates. Some servers will be deemed End of Life (EOL) and will not receive any new security updates.When you can’t apply updates, you fail to remove known security vulnerabilities. Security updates patch holes in hardware or software so that cybercriminals can’t exploit them. If you don’t update, you don’t patch those holes.It’s like saying a screen door is a sufficient deterrent to unwanted guests. Eventually, someone will tear the screen and get inside. For unprotected servers, eventually, cybercriminals will find vulnerabilities that allow them access.Newer servers have advanced security features that protect your data from the digital villains.
Have you introduced new software or devices only to face compatibility issues with your current server? It's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole – it just doesn't work.Technology advances so rapidly that older hardware and applications eventually become incompatible with newer updates or programs. Newer applications and updates require more memory and speed to function, and older hardware can’t keep up.Servers typically have a useful life of five to seven years. In that time, your server will slow down, become increasingly unreliable, and have difficulty using newer applications.A new server ensures your systems can smoothly integrate with the latest technology, preventing compatibility headaches.
Eventually, manufacturers will declare hardware as End of Life (EOL). They will no longer create that device or any compatible replacement parts. If you call the manufacturer for support, you will be told that the device is no longer supported.Your server will no longer receive updates to help with functionality or security. It will be exposed to potential attacks and decreased performance.If your server does crash, it will be more challenging to find support or repair it. The manufacturer will be unable to help, and compatible parts will be difficult, if not impossible, to find. This increases your potential downtime.
In the fast-paced world of technology, keeping your business's IT server up-to-date is crucial for smooth operations.By recognizing the signs and understanding the importance of a reliable server, you can make informed decisions that benefit your business in the long run. Symptoms that you may need a new server include:
Remember: just because certain technology isn't seen doesn't mean it isn't used daily. The more specific technology is used, the more vital it is to your system. Highly used technology—like servers—should be high on the replacement plan.Speak with your IT provider or internal IT department about your IT Roadmap and asset inventory to see if your server is due for replacement. They can also help you review or develop the replacement plan and budget for a new server or cloud migration.For over 25 years, WEBIT Services has helped clients identify EOL and EOS technology and has assisted in creating strategies to address these risks. It has also purchased and deployed technology for hundreds of happy clients.If you are looking for a new IT provider, schedule a free 30-minute consultation to see if WEBIT Service can help you and your organization.If you're not ready to commit to a new IT provider but would like to learn more about technology replacement, we recommend the following articles:
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