Many businesses still use a traditional server to operate their business. While the functionality of a physical server has been proven to allow an organisation to operate effectively, there are a number of ways in which these in-house servers can fail. When a physical server fails, a business can be left with profit and productivity losses, and an increase in overhead costs. It is therefore essential for stakeholders to consider more reliable alternatives. So, what causes server failure and how can a cloud platform provide the solution?

There are typically two types of server failure: a software failure, or a hardware failure. A server’s system can fall apart due to a failing piece of software, a bad update to the operating system or a cyber attack. Hardware failure for a server often relates to a fault in the motherboard, a power supply interruption, or a hard drive failure. Without any onsite hardware, a cloud server offers a far more resilient, cost effective and performance-friendly method for operating a business.

Keep reading to find out more about the causes of server failure, and the benefits of moving a physical server to the cloud.

What Causes Server Failure?

When a server fails, it can have a number of negative impacts on a business. For example, the server down-time will result in reduced profits, drops in productivity, and increased overhead costs. Customers may also lose trust in the business. For these reasons, it is vital that a traditional server is regularly monitored and maintained to prevent a failure.

Hardware Failure

Adverse environmental factors including humidity and high temperatures can cause a series of issues for a server’s hardware. Server failures are often the result of a fault in the motherboard, which is usually caused by overheating, physical damage or electrical faults. Power outages can also lead to a server failing, and so with a traditional server it is vital that a consistent power source is maintained. The hard drive can also fail in a physical server due to logical, mechanical or electrical failure.

Software Failure

Outdated or buggy firmware increases the likelihood that a physical server will fail. It is also possible for a physical server to experience server overload and network glitches, which can result in a firmware collapse. This is often followed by a server failure. Unvetted patches, irregular updates and EOL hardware can also contribute to this outcome. 

 

What are the Benefits of a Cloud Server?

If you are reading the above and are wondering what the solution to these problems might be, then your answer may be to consider migrating to a cloud server. A cloud server works by pooling the resources of multiple physical servers to create a virtual server that can be accessed remotely. 

Cloud servers deliver the same functionality as a physical server in that they both provide processing power, storage and applications. However, there are a number of ways in which a cloud server may be more suitable for your requirements than a physical server. 

Resilience

Cloud servers can provide secure, uninterrupted and fast access to an unlimited number of users, whilst remaining immune to server overloads caused by too many users or out-of-date-programs. This makes them far more resilient than physical servers.

Cost

By eliminating the need to install expensive and often sizable server hardware, cloud servers can also reduce the cost of energy. There is no need for consistent air conditioning or reliable power to supply a physical server. Cloud servers also have far easier scalability, allowing you to increase or decrease the size of the server without investing in an array of new hardware. 

Performance

The scalability of cloud servers also means that there is no limitation to the amount of computing power that you are able to access. With the combined computing power of multiple physical servers, a cloud computing platform is generally more stable and secure than a traditional server.

How Can I Set Up a Cloud Server?

Physical servers are limited in several ways, and are constrained by their existing computing capacity and infrastructure. A cloud server can be operated by anyone anywhere, and using nationwide data centres allows for geo redundancy. To configure a cloud server correctly, you will require the assistance of an expert IT Partner with extensive experience and knowledge.

Receive Expert Help with Your Cloud Migration

If you are considering moving your business to a cloud platform, it is important that you employ the services of an IT company you can trust. At 777 Networks, we offer a range of expert cloud migration services to ensure that your organisation is ready for the cloud. Contact us today to find out more about your cloud migration options.