4U rack servers, among the largest rack mount servers available today, are powerful solutions for a growing network. A 4U rack server will generally provide speed from up to 4 simultaneous processors, placing them among the fastest processors available on the market today. Additionally,the large size of 4U racks will allow for an almost endless amount of storage space and input devices.

Given the power that a 4U server rack can provide, adding one to your network is generally a costly endeavor. There is also a myriad of options available when configuring your server. As a result, you must make sure you find the perfect 4U rack mount for your business, and take into account:

1. Whether you need the power, storage, and options that come with a 4U rack mount server, and that the benefits will outweigh the cost for you.

2. Whether you need a more basic and affordable 4U rack, or a high-end speedy unit that will come at a higher price.

3. How much storage you need from your unit, and what input capabilities your server needs to have.

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

Make sure a 4U rack is truly what you need

A rack 4U in size is a large, high-powered server, that packs enough of a punch to power even the largest of small business networks. While some might think that there is no such thing as too much power, when looking at the cost-effectiveness of setting up your network, if your company is smaller sized, from an IT standpoint, and likely will not be growing too much anytime soon, then a smaller solution may be better for you. Bear in mind as well that larger servers, with more components inside, means that there is more to maintain. The bottom line is to make sure that you will be harnessing everything that 4U server racks will give you before you take the plunge.

I recommend: Dell offers a line of PowerEdge 4U rack servers. Not only are they worth checking out as a possible solution, but the company's website also offers a very clear cut comparison of the units, which is a good tool for making sure these types of servers fit your needs.

Comparison shop online for your 4U rack

Many online retailers sell 4U racks of varying configurations. Once you have determined that a 4U server rack is right for you, and you know what options you need for your unit, head over to some of your favorite online retailers to see what they have to offer.

I recommend: TigerDirect and Newegg.com are both reputable online dealers with a good selection of 4U racks available.

Look into custom solutions as well when finding the best 4U rack

Considering the cost of a 4U rack server, a fully customized unit is another option worth considering. Several companies manufacture 4U racks that are built to your specifications from the ground up. While this process comes at a slightly higher cost than a pre-built server, it will ensure that you end up with a unit that is optimized to handle your network.

I recommend: Aberdeen manufactures several 4U rack servers with a great deal of customization options. FreedomTechnologies is another recommended company, and offers a 4U rack that can be fully customized as well.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  A rack 4U in size is a large and costly unit that requires more maintenance than smaller options. Be sure such a unit is necessary for your network before you decide to build or buy one.