Application servers come in as many styles and configurations as there are businesses that use them. Designed to host network applications such email, databases and a variety of web applications, application servers must meet strict specifications. Servers allow programs to run from the various application servers, directly on the desktops of the employee. This allows greater control of the individual desktops on a network and keeps them running faster and more securely.

Careful comparison of application servers is required due to the overwhelming variations in server components. When you set out to buy applications servers there are numerous considerations including, memory, processors and data backup. The application server's comparison needs input from the technical and networking departments as well as the end user. It's important to:

1. Look for application servers that allow modular growth to meet future needs.

2. Research any space, power or cooling limitations in the application server's environment.

3. Define the applications minimum server requirements for number of users and database size expectations.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look for application servers with cases to fit your current network layout

Finding room for a new application server can be tricky business. Servers are available in many forms from standard desktop configurations to blade models designed to maximize space while controlling heat issues associated with application servers. Information to look for includes rack space requirements or footprint on desktop and tower style servers.

I recommend: Dell Inc. application servers deliver designs to work with most network storage limitations. The BladeCenter from International Business Machines Corp. (IBM) is a leader in space saving, modular server systems including networks running Linux application servers.

Maximize your business servers with processors built for speed

The workhorse of any server is the processor that drives the system. Choosing the processor that can meet or exceed the considerable demands placed on an application server keeps downtime and data delays to a minimum. Comparing application servers starts with the processor to ensure rapid response times and eliminate data latency.

I recommend: Intel Corporation is the leading manufacturer of server processors with proven reliability and speed. Compare processors from Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) to find big processing power at a competitive price point.

Use custom application servers for complex projects and advanced application needs

Large scale and complex applications require customized business servers built to meet specialized specifications. Custom application servers allow you to tailor your system to run across multiple office networks or share applications that have excessive memory or processing requirements. Buy application servers from a custom manufacturer to save money and time by ensuring your application works from day one.

I recommend: Diversified Technology, Inc. (DTI) designs and builds custom servers to meet requirements as complex as offsite mobile systems for use in car- and truck-based applications. View the DTI Webinar Series and find out how your organization can take advantage of cutting-edge technology for your application servers. Designed from the ground up to meet the demanding specifications of enterprise application needs, Terian Solutions LLC works with you to ensure you have the hardware needed to drive your application.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Benchmark testing numbers provided by manufactures are often misleading. Consult with an experienced technical advisor to ensure the application server meets or exceeds requirements in real world testing.