With cloud computing, there is no need for heavy investment anymore. With just a few laptops and cloud services for their infrastructure needs, anyone today can start a business. In South East Asia (SEA), technology adoption is growing very fast especially in cloud computing. In Thailand, small businesses can set up a server and keep sensitive data safe. The cloud server Thailand is geared towards workloads and applications that require a balance of memory resources and burstable compute. Servers can host and serve many business functions including; files, databases, email, business apps, data storage and backup, websites, and eCommerce.

Server options for small business

There are different categories of servers. These include:

1. Onsite servers vs cloud solutions

Data storage solutions for small business is the same as storing your work files on a Google Drive. You can use an ‘onsite’ server if you choose to store those same files on a physical server at your location. All cloud services are simply the same type of onsite physical servers though they may be more powerful or larger. This simply means the server doing all of the work isn’t located at your business physically. Also, someone else is doing the maintenance.

2. Windows vs Linux

For a shared server for your small business, you’ll need an operating system just as you would for your computer. If you are comfortable with Windows-based technology, Windows is the best option. Do thorough research on both to get to know what’s right for you and your IT team. These are not the only technologies available but they are the most notable.

Planning and purchasing cloud server components

After deciding on the technology to use for your cloud server, then you are ready to buy a server system for your small business. Here are some tips to get you through this process:

3. Know the tasks you’ll run

Have a list of jobs you’ll need the server to do to help you in discussing the server you want to buy. This will help you stay within your budget range. Ask yourself; how many people will use each application at a time? What applications will you run from the server? Will the number of applications or people using an application grow significantly over the next few years?, and how will the business grow? to get an idea of the processor, hard drive, and RAM your server must-have.

Consider your future and current needs before getting the server. Add developments like new email technology to your task list too.

  4. Know your budget

There is a difference in numbers between what you should pay and what you can pay, and you may not afford the best storage server for your small business in the market. Have a maximum budget amount in mind. Figure out if renting hardware is cheaper than buying. Also, consider using a cloud-based option for some of your data will get you what you need for what you can afford. Factor in the parts used to build the servers and services cost yearly into your budget as they change.

5 .Decide on the components

You’ll need the right amount of RAM and a hard drive with enough speed and space to handle your work. To know the parts you pick will be up to the tasks you’ll need to follow these steps:

(a) Do further research on the list of applications you put together.

(b) Note and record the results with high and low estimates of what you’ll need for each application or program.

(c) After having the minimum spec requirements for most parts, work with a third-party expert to go over other needs.

(d) Go over the specs for your server room in advance, including cooling systems, windows, and any backup power that will keep your equipment safe.

(e) Ask your IT teams how will you meet needs through security, racks, and cable management.