Key Factors to Consider Before Buying an x86 Server

When you choose an x86 server, you need to start by looking at your workload. Your applications and future growth shape the hardware you select. Over 75% of cloud-based workloads in 2024 rely on x86 servers, making them a trusted choice for most businesses. You gain quick deployment, lower cost, and keep your business-critical applications running without rewrites. Japan hosting is also an option to consider for businesses targeting the Asian market. Servers must fit your needs today and scale for tomorrow. Focus on matching CPU, memory, storage, and space to your requirements.

Key Takeaways

• Identify your workload before selecting an x86 server. Match server specifications to your applications for optimal performance.
• Estimate user load and future growth. Plan for scalability to ensure your server can handle increased demand over time.
• Choose the right CPU based on core count and clock speed. This choice impacts how well your server performs under different workloads.
• Select storage solutions that balance speed and capacity. Consider NVMe SSDs for high performance and HDDs for cost-effective large storage.
• Plan for future upgrades and modularity. This approach helps you adapt to changing business needs without significant downtime.

Define Your Workload

Application Characteristics

You need to start by identifying the main applications your servers will run. Each application has unique requirements that shape your hardware choices. Many businesses deploy enterprise solutions such as SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft SQL Server. You may also use servers for cloud infrastructure, virtual environments, or research tasks like simulations and data analysis.

• Enterprise applications (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server)
• Cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
• Virtual environments (testing, development)
• Research (simulations, data analysis)

Different application types demand specific hardware. The table below shows how your workload influences the server components you need:

If you plan to run AI, machine learning, or analytics workloads, consider adding AI accelerator cards. These cards boost performance for specialized tasks and help you process large datasets faster.

Tip: List your critical applications before you choose an x86 server. This step helps you match hardware to your business needs.

User Load and Growth

You must estimate how many users will access your servers and how this number might grow. User load affects your hardware choices. A small team may need basic resources, but a growing business or high-traffic website requires more power and scalability.

Servers designed for high-performance environments can support up to 192 processor cores and 6 TB of memory. Built-in hardware and firmware security features protect your data as your user base expands. High-density servers help you manage compute-intensive workloads efficiently.

• Start with your current user count.
• Project future growth for the next 2-5 years.
• Plan for peak usage times and seasonal spikes.

Note: Overestimating growth can increase cost, but underestimating may limit performance and slow your business.

Performance Priorities

You must set clear performance priorities before you invest in new servers. Some businesses need broad compatibility to run many operating systems and virtualization platforms. Others focus on cost-effectiveness, seeking a balance between performance and price.

The table below highlights key performance priorities for x86 servers in demanding environments:

You should choose an x86 server that matches your top priorities. If you expect rapid growth, focus on scalability and modular upgrades. If you run mixed workloads, look for servers that handle both compute and data-intensive tasks. Energy efficiency matters if you want to control operating costs over time.

Tip: Write down your top three performance goals. Use these goals to guide your hardware selection and avoid overspending.

How to Choose an x86 Server CPU

Choosing the right CPU is one of the most important steps when you choose an x86 server. The CPU determines how well your servers handle your workload. You need to match the CPU’s specifications to your business needs. The right choice helps you balance performance and cost, and ensures your servers can grow with your business. If you plan to use more than 3GB of memory, you must select a CPU that supports x64 architecture. This allows your servers to access larger memory capacities and run modern applications smoothly.

Core Count and Clock Speed

You should look at both core count and clock speed when comparing x86 server CPUs. Core count means the number of independent processing units in a CPU. More cores let your server handle more tasks at the same time. This is important for workloads that use many threads, such as virtualization or data analysis.

Clock speed, measured in gigahertz (GHz), shows how many instruction cycles a CPU can complete each second. Higher clock speeds help with tasks that need fast, sequential calculations, like certain database operations.

Here are the main points to consider:

• Core count is best for multi-threaded workloads that can run in parallel.
• Clock speed is important for tasks that need quick, single-threaded processing.

Tip: Check your main applications. If they use many threads, choose a CPU with more cores. If they rely on fast calculations, focus on higher clock speeds.

Single vs Dual Processor

You must decide between single and dual processor configurations. This choice affects your server’s performance, power use, and cost. Single-socket servers can deliver similar performance to dual-socket servers, especially with modern CPUs. They often use less power and cost less to run.

The table below compares single and dual processor setups:

• Single-socket servers can achieve similar performance with fewer units.
• You can use 29% fewer servers and consume 47% less power with single-socket configurations.
• Dual-socket servers are best for applications that need maximum processing power.

Single-socket servers work well for standard business applications. Dual-socket servers fit high-performance needs, such as large databases or scientific computing.

Processor Features

Modern x86 servers offer advanced processor features that support virtualization and large memory capacities. These features help you run multiple operating systems and manage memory more efficiently. If you plan to use virtualization, look for CPUs with these technologies:

You should also check for support of x64 architecture. This is essential if you need more than 3GB of memory. The x86 architecture with x64 support allows your servers to handle large memory and advanced workloads.

Note: Always review the processor’s feature set. Make sure it matches your needs for virtualization, memory, and future growth.

Memory Needs for x86 Servers

Capacity Planning

You need to plan memory carefully when you choose servers. The right amount of memory helps your applications run smoothly and keeps your users happy. If you use too little memory, your servers may slow down or crash. Too much memory can increase cost without adding value. You should match memory size to your workload. The table below shows common recommendations for different types of servers:

You should review your applications and user needs before you decide. If you expect your workload to grow, plan for extra memory now to avoid higher cost later.

Tip: Choose x86 architecture with x64 support if you need more than 3GB of RAM. This lets your servers handle larger memory and modern applications.

Memory Speed and Type

Memory speed affects how fast your servers can access data. Faster memory improves performance for tasks like virtualization, analytics, and databases. You should check your server’s motherboard for supported memory types, such as DDR4 or DDR5. Some workloads need error-correcting code (ECC) memory to prevent data corruption. ECC memory is important for production environments where stability matters.

• DDR4 memory is common and offers good speed for most workloads.
• DDR5 memory provides higher speed and better efficiency for new servers.

You should balance memory speed with cost. Faster memory often costs more, but it can boost performance for demanding tasks.

Expandability

You should think about future growth when you choose memory. Many x86 servers offer extra memory slots for upgrades. This lets you add more memory as your needs change. Check the maximum supported memory for your server model. Make sure you can expand without replacing existing modules.

• Look for servers with open memory slots.
• Plan for upgrades to avoid downtime and extra cost.

Note: Expandable memory helps you protect your investment and keep up with business growth.

Storage Options

HDD, SSD, NVMe

You have several choices for storage in x86 servers. Hard disk drives (HDDs) use traditional spinning disks. They offer large capacity at a lower cost, but you get slower speeds and higher latency. Solid-state drives (SSDs) use flash memory. SATA SSDs deliver moderate speeds and lower latency than HDDs, but they still rely on the older AHCI protocol. NVMe SSDs connect directly to the PCIe bus. You gain much higher throughput and reduced latency, which is ideal for data-intensive applications like video streaming or large dataset processing. NVMe also uses less power during idle tasks.

• HDD: 4-10W normally, spikes to 20-25W during boot
• SATA SSD: 2-4W for average workloads
• NVMe SSD: 3-6W for average workloads, much lower during idle tasks

Tip: Choose NVMe SSDs for workloads that demand high performance and low latency. Select HDDs if you need large storage at a lower cost.

RAID and Redundancy

You can use RAID to improve data redundancy and boost performance in your servers. RAID 1 mirrors data on two drives, giving you high redundancy and increased read speed. Write speed does not improve. RAID 5 uses striping and parity, offering moderate redundancy and a performance boost. You need at least three drives for RAID 5. RAID 6 provides high redundancy and faster read speeds than RAID 5. It requires at least four drives and can handle the loss of two drives.

Note: RAID protects your data and helps you avoid downtime. Select the RAID level that matches your needs for redundancy and cost.

Storage Scalability

You need to plan for storage growth in x86 architecture environments. You can scale up by adding larger drives or upgrading NAS and SAN systems. This method works until you reach system limits. Scale-out strategies let you add more nodes to create a cluster. You gain parallel operation and resource sharing, which helps eliminate bottlenecks. Cloud storage uses scale-out architectures, allowing you to expand storage elastically. Solutions like DataCore Swarm let you convert standard servers into scalable object storage clusters. You can add drives or nodes as your data grows, keeping performance steady.

Tip: Use scale-out storage for rapid growth and large datasets. This approach helps you manage cost and avoid bottlenecks.

Network Configuration

NIC Choices

You need to select network interface cards (NICs) that match your workload and future needs. The right NIC improves server performance and helps you control cost. Consider these key factors when choosing NICs for your servers:

1. Speed and Throughput: Make sure the NIC supports the required rate, such as 25 Gbps, for fast data transfer.
2. Compatibility: Match the NIC with your hardware and software to avoid bottlenecks.
3. Latency and Performance: Choose NICs with low latency for critical applications.
4. Energy Efficiency: Select NICs that use less power to reduce long-term cost.
5. Security Features: Look for encryption and secure operations to protect your data.
6. Manageability and Automation: Pick NICs with features that simplify network management.
7. Vendor Support and Warranty: Reliable support and warranty options help you avoid unexpected cost.

Tip: Review your application requirements before you buy NICs. This step helps you balance performance and cost.

Bandwidth and Redundancy

You must plan for enough bandwidth to support your users and applications. High bandwidth prevents slowdowns and keeps your servers running smoothly. Redundant network connections protect against failures and keep your business online. Many organizations use multiple NICs or network paths to ensure continuous access. You can configure NIC teaming or bonding to combine bandwidth and add fault tolerance. This setup helps you avoid downtime and manage cost by reducing the risk of network outages.

• Use multiple NICs for redundancy.
• Combine bandwidth for better performance.
• Monitor network usage to plan for future growth.

Note: Redundant connections and proper bandwidth planning protect your investment and support business continuity.

Remote Access

Remote access tools let you manage servers from anywhere. Modern solutions provide secure and dependable out-of-band access, even if the main network goes down. You can use a web interface for easy access without extra software. High-quality video and virtual media features allow remote OS installation and troubleshooting. Some systems include built-in console servers for managing serial devices. You can access servers before boot, which helps with configuration and problem-solving.

• Dedicated, always-on channel for remote access.
• Monitoring and management possible even when the primary network is down.
• Uses a proprietary microprocessor for independent operation.

Tip: Choose remote access solutions that offer secure, reliable management. This choice helps you save time and reduce cost.

Power and Efficiency

Redundant Power Supplies

You need to keep your servers running, even if a power supply fails. Redundant power supplies give you this protection. Each power supply works together, so if one stops, the other keeps your server online. This setup helps you avoid downtime and protects your data. Many data centers use hot-swappable power supplies. You can replace a faulty unit without shutting down the server. This feature saves time and keeps your business moving.

Efficiency Ratings

You should look for high-efficiency power supplies when you choose servers. Efficiency ratings, such as 80 PLUS Gold or Platinum, show how well a power supply turns electricity from the wall into usable power. Higher ratings mean less energy wasted as heat. This leads to several benefits:

• You save money on electricity bills.
• Your servers produce less heat, so you spend less on cooling.
• You lower your total cost of ownership over time.

Tip: Choose power supplies with high efficiency ratings to reduce both energy use and cooling needs.

Sizing for Growth

You must plan for future growth when sizing power supplies. Modern data centers use several methods to prepare for expansion:

• High-efficiency power supplies help lower power use and operational costs.
• Modular power supplies let you add or remove capacity as your needs change.
• Many companies now choose power supplies that support renewable energy for greener operations.
• Higher power density designs give you more power in less space, which helps you fit more servers in your racks.
• Smart power management tools let you monitor energy use in real time and adjust as needed.
• Advanced cooling systems keep your servers stable, even during heavy workloads.

Planning ahead ensures your servers can handle more work as your business grows. You avoid costly upgrades and keep your systems running smoothly.

Motherboard and Expansion

Component Compatibility

You need to check component compatibility before you select a motherboard for your servers. x86 motherboards offer many performance options, from low-power models to high-performance processors. This flexibility helps you match hardware to your project needs. The x86 architecture supports a wide software ecosystem, so you can deploy existing solutions and integrate with different operating systems easily.

• You should consider the form factor. Most server motherboards use a standard 19-inch size. This size fits many racks and cases, making it easier to mix and match parts from different brands.
• Compatibility ensures you avoid problems during upgrades and helps you control cost.

Tip: Always verify that your chosen motherboard supports the processors, memory, and storage devices you plan to use.

Expansion Slots

Expansion slots let you add new features and boost server performance. PCIe slots are the best choice for modern builds. They offer faster speeds and better scalability than older PCI slots. PCIe also provides lower latency, which means your server responds quickly to new tasks.

• PCIe supports many modern industrial and embedded platforms.
• You can install network cards, storage controllers, and AI accelerators using PCIe slots.
• Choosing PCIe helps future-proof your server and keeps it ready for new technology.

Note: Plan for extra expansion slots if you expect to upgrade your server in the future.

BIOS Support

BIOS support plays a key role in hardware compatibility and security. Modern x86 servers use UEFI, which simplifies the boot process and improves compatibility. Secure Boot ensures only trusted software runs during startup, protecting your system from threats. You activate Secure Boot by enrolling a Platform Key, setting the system mode to User or Deployed, and disabling the Compatibility Support Module.

Tip: Check for UEFI and Secure Boot support when you choose a motherboard. These features help protect your server and prepare it for future upgrades.

Chassis and Physical Space

Rack vs Tower Servers

You need to evaluate your available physical space before choosing between rack and tower servers. Rack servers fit into standardized racks, which help you save floor space and organize your equipment. Tower servers look like traditional desktop computers and work well for small offices or locations with limited infrastructure. The table below shows how rack servers can reduce space compared to traditional PCs:

Rack servers allow you to maximize density and simplify cable management. Tower servers offer easier access for upgrades and maintenance. You should choose the type that matches your space, growth plans, and management needs.

Tip: Measure your available space and consider future expansion before you decide on a server chassis.

Cooling Solutions

You must keep your servers cool to maintain performance and prevent damage. High-density deployments generate more heat, especially with AI workloads. Traditional air cooling cannot handle the heat from these setups. Liquid cooling methods, such as direct-to-chip cooling and immersion cooling, work best for high-density environments. Companies like Microsoft and Google use immersion cooling in their data centers. Analyst firm Omdia projects global liquid cooling revenues will reach $2 billion by the end of 2024 and rise to $5 billion by 2028. This trend shows the growing demand for advanced cooling solutions.

• Liquid cooling removes heat efficiently from high-performance servers.
• Immersion cooling supports future data center needs.
• Air cooling works for low-density setups but may not be enough for modern workloads.

Note: Choose a cooling solution that matches your server density and workload type to avoid extra cost and downtime.

Space Planning

You need to plan your space to support current and future server expansion. Start by taking inventory of your racks, servers, switches, and power usage. Apply a growth multiplier, with the industry average at 15–20% per year. Plan for hardware refresh cycles every 3–5 years, which may increase rack density. Always reserve at least 30% of your space for expansion.

1. List all equipment and power draw.
2. Estimate annual growth using industry averages.
3. Prepare for hardware upgrades and increased density.
4. Set aside extra space for future needs.

Smart space planning helps you avoid overcrowding and keeps your servers running efficiently.

Tip: Review your space plan every year to stay ahead of growth and technology changes.

Remote Management and Security

Management Tools

You need strong management tools to keep your servers running smoothly. Modern remote management lets you monitor, control, and troubleshoot hardware from anywhere. This saves you time and helps you avoid unnecessary trips to the data center. Most servers come with built-in management interfaces like IPMI, iDRAC, or HPE iLO. These tools give you access to power controls, hardware health, and system logs.

• Use web-based dashboards for real-time monitoring.
• Set up alerts for hardware failures or temperature spikes.
• Update firmware and BIOS remotely to keep systems secure.

Tip: Choose management tools that support automation. Automated tasks reduce errors and free up your time for more important work.

You can also use centralized platforms to manage multiple servers at once. This approach helps you scale your operations as your business grows.

Security Features

You must protect your data and hardware from threats. Security features in modern servers help you defend against attacks and prevent unauthorized access. Look for hardware-based security, such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chips, which store encryption keys safely. Secure Boot ensures only trusted software loads during startup.

• Enable multi-factor authentication for remote access.
• Use role-based access controls to limit user permissions.
• Regularly update security patches to close vulnerabilities.

Note: Investing in strong security features may increase initial cost, but it protects your business from much larger losses in the future.

Scalability and Future-Proofing

Planning for Growth

You need to plan for growth when you choose an x86 server. Start by estimating how your workload will change over the next few years. Look at your business goals and predict how much data you will process. You should also think about how many users will access your servers. If you expect rapid expansion, select hardware that supports easy upgrades. Many organizations use a growth multiplier, such as 15% per year, to guide their planning. This approach helps you avoid running out of resources and keeps your systems ready for new demands.

Tip: Review your growth plan every year. Adjust your hardware strategy to match changes in your business.

Modular Upgrades

Modular upgrades make it easier to expand your servers without replacing the entire system. You can add memory, storage, or network cards as your needs increase. This flexibility helps you control cost and keeps your infrastructure up to date. Many server designs use hot-swappable components, so you can upgrade parts while the system stays online. Modular upgrades also reduce downtime and simplify maintenance.

Here are some benefits of modular upgrades:

• Add new features without major changes.
• Replace outdated parts quickly.
• Scale resources to match your workload.

Vendor Roadmaps

You should study vendor roadmaps before you invest in new servers. Roadmaps show you what features and technologies will arrive soon. This information helps you make smart choices and avoid buying hardware that will become obsolete. Leading vendors share updates about processor releases, memory support, and new security features. You can use this data to plan upgrades and keep your systems future-proof.

Note: Ask your vendor for roadmap details. This step helps you align your hardware with upcoming trends and ensures long-term value.

Brand, Support, and Warranty

Reputable Brands

You should start by looking at reputable brands when you choose servers. Well-known brands like Dell, HPE, Lenovo, and Supermicro have strong track records for reliability and innovation. These companies invest in research and development to improve hardware quality. You get better support and access to new technologies. Trusted brands also offer clear documentation and easier integration with other systems.

Tip: Research customer reviews and industry awards before you decide. Reliable brands help you avoid unexpected problems.

Service Options

You need to consider service options before you buy. Leading vendors provide different levels of support, such as on-site repairs, remote troubleshooting, and 24/7 help desks. Some companies offer managed services, which handle updates and monitoring for you. You can choose basic support or premium plans based on your needs. Service contracts often include response time guarantees and replacement parts.

Note: Good service options reduce downtime and help you control cost over time.

Warranty Coverage

You must check warranty coverage before you make a purchase. Most vendors offer standard warranties that last one to three years. Extended warranties give you longer protection and may include accidental damage or rapid replacement. You should read the warranty terms carefully. Look for coverage on parts, labor, and shipping. Some warranties let you upgrade for extra peace of mind.

• Standard warranty covers basic repairs.
• Extended warranty adds more years and extra services.
• Rapid replacement minimizes disruption if hardware fails.

Tip: Choose a warranty that matches your business needs and growth plans. Strong coverage protects your investment and keeps your servers running smoothly.

When you choose an x86 server, you set the foundation for your business success. You should match server specs to your workload and plan for future needs. Focus on these key steps:

1. Define your workload and select the right CPU.
2. Add AI accelerator cards for machine learning tasks.
3. Estimate memory needs and use ECC memory.
4. Pick storage for speed, capacity, and redundancy.
5. Choose a network setup that fits your traffic.
6. Plan upgrades to avoid bottlenecks and control cost.

You can talk with experts and trusted vendors to make the best choice for your servers.

FAQ

What is the main advantage of choosing an x86 server?

You get broad compatibility with most operating systems and applications. x86 servers offer flexibility for many workloads. You can scale resources as your business grows.

How much memory do I need for my x86 server?

You should match memory to your workload. For most business applications, 64GB to 128GB works well. High-performance tasks may need more.

Tip: Always plan for future upgrades when you choose memory.

Can I upgrade my x86 server later?

Yes, you can add more memory, storage, or network cards. Many x86 servers support hot-swappable components. This makes upgrades easy and reduces downtime.

Do I need RAID for my server storage?

You should use RAID if you want data protection and better performance. RAID 1 or RAID 5 are common choices for business servers.

Note: RAID helps prevent data loss if a drive fails.