Created almost 10 years ago, the IBM p series server series is considered one of the most powerful server systems on the market. The most famous pSeries server, of course, was the Deep Blue supercomputer, which won a chess match against reigning world champion Garry Kasparov. Today, pSeries servers are available as a super-fast solution for your business.

IBM p-Series servers come at a high cost, and therefore, you should make sure that your business needs to harness the power that they provide. In addition to the cost, IBM pSeries servers are complicated to maintain, and generally require migration to a new operating system for your servers. If you are willing to put up with the setup costs and hours, however, you will end up with one of the best servers on the market today. Before making your purchase, be sure to take into account:

1. Whether you will benefit from a server as fast as the IBM pSeries server.

2. Which IBM p series server model is right for you.

3. Whether to buy your IBM pSeries server new or used.

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

Decide whether the IBM pSeries server is right for you

IBM pSeries servers are among the most expensive servers on the market, so before you go any further, you have to make sure that your business will truly benefit from such a high-end piece of hardware. Most pSeries server units are large, and require lots of cables and other maintenance as well, so it may not be the best solution for a company without a dedicated IT person. In addition, the IBM pSeries server runs on a UNIX operating platform, generally IBM's AIX operating system, or in some cases, the open source Linux OS. If you're switching from an existing server setup, make sure that this migration is possible without too much of a headache.

I recommend: IBM's website lists the advantages of using a pSeries server system. This page is a great resource to help determine if the pSeries is right for you.

Choose the IBM pSeries server model that is best for your needs

Once you have decided that the pSeries is the best solution for your business, it's time to compare the various models of the platform that IBM has available. IBM p series server models range from entry-level rack mount units to high-end enterprise models that can boast a whopping 2 terabytes of system memory. Once you have checked out the different models, you can request quotes on them directly from IBM. The advantage to buying direct is that you will receive the best warranty and service options, directly from the company.

I recommend: Review the different pSeries server models on IBM's website. Then, request a quote for your models directly from the manufacturer.

Look into used or refurbished pSeries servers

If a new pSeries server is simply too expensive for your business, another option to look into is buying a used or refurbished unit from a third-party pSeries distributor. While you generally will not receive the IBM warranty, most third-party retailers provide you with an adequate service plan of their own, and the savings from buying a pre-owned unit are astronomical.

I recommend: Check out Vibrant Technologies' offerings of used and refurbished IBM pSeries servers. RS6000dealer.com is another top provider of used pSeries servers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Be sure to check out both new and used options when shopping for the best deal on an IBM pSeries server. Used pSeries servers can provide a great option at a much lower cost.