What is Server Consolidation?
Server consolidation is an approach to the efficient usage of computer server resources in order to reduce the total number of servers or server locations that an organization requires. The practice was developed in response to the problem of "server sprawl," a situation in which multiple under-utilized servers take up more space and consume more resources than can be justified by their workload.
What Type of Consolidation is Right for Me?
There are three main levels of server consolidation to consider:
Centralized Consolidation - Rather than maintaining servers at various branch offices, an organization moves all servers to a centralized location. This greatly simplifies maintenance duties for IT staff as they can immediately access all systems without traveling. This also simplifies security, backing up data and instituting an extensive failover plan.
Physical Consolidation - An organization reduces the total number of servers by merging the workload onto fewer servers. The new setup retains a homogeneous environment in that it is still running on a single platform.
Operational Consolidation - Also known as virtualization or application consolidation, this approach runs multiple platforms and diverse applications on a single server (or cluster). This technique uses partitioning and virtualization to run many "virtual servers" on a single machine. This makes efficient use of system resources while minimizing upkeep tasks and TCO. Although the most complex option, Operational Consolidation can offer the greatest payoff.
Why Consolidate?
Many organizations are turning to server consolidation to reduce infrastructure complexity, improve system availability and save money.
With increasingly powerful hardware, including affordable x86-based multi-core servers, organizations can run larger workloads and more applications on fewer servers. Reducing the number of servers has tangible benefits for the data center as well:
Reduced Staffing Costs
Reduced staffing needs due to more efficient operations and improved skill sets.
Less Hardware
More efficient use of hardware minimizes investment in hardware and management tools.
Better Software Pricing
Fewer licenses may be required. Having a more consistent environment can provide better discounts due to concentrating on fewer applications purchased in larger quantities.
Minimized Facility Requirements
Less physical space is required for housing IT systems, and
power consumption is typically reduced.
Better Service
With fewer applications and versions to support, IT staff will be more knowledgeable and handle help desk calls more efficiently.
Reduced Complexity
A simplified infrastructure will provide better performance and more stability.
Improved Scalability
A simplified network also provides a more flexible system that can grow as your needs evolve.
Easier Disaster Recovery
Fewer systems are easier to maintain, backup and restore.
CDW's Approach
CDW has developed a simple, yet comprehensive approach to server consolidation solutions that has proven successful for organizations of all kinds.
Engage Your Account Manager
Your CDW account manager and our pre-sales team will work with you to assess your current environment and future needs.
Implement and Manage
Working together, CDW will design detailed configurations for your future environment, drawing from best-in-class solutions from our enormous in-stock inventory. We work with multiple service providers to deliver a solution that fits seamlessly into your IT environment.
CDW's commitment continues long after your purchase. Certified technicians offer 24 x 7 telephone support for ongoing management needs, and you can always access online tech support through your My Account tab above. The My Account area also serves as a round-the-clock extension of your account team, detailing your pricing, order status, account history and more.
