Many owners of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) don’t realize how important the server room is until they can’t send or receive emails, access critical data, or use software tools they need for their daily tasks.
But if you know what to watch out for, most server room problems are preventable or fixable.
Top issues that plague server rooms
The following are some common server room issues most SMBs face and how to address them.
Overheating and poor cooling
Servers generate a lot of heat. Without proper cooling, they will fail and shut down, resulting in costly downtime and service interruptions. Even a brief shutdown can mean hundreds of dollars in lost revenue and repair costs.
How to fix it:
- Use a reliable air conditioner system that’s solely dedicated to your servers.
- Do not cram too many machines into tight spaces.
- Avoid dust buildup by regularly cleaning the servers’ vents and fans.
Cable chaos
You’ve seen this before: tangled cords all over the floor like spilled spaghetti, or bundled together haphazardly. Sure, it’s an eyesore. But more than that, it’s a hazard. These chaotic cables can trip someone, block airflow to the servers, and make troubleshooting harder. It’ll be easier to manage and maintain a tidy server room.
How to fix it:
- Practice cable management 101: use racks, trays, and Velcro ties.
- Label all connections so they’re easily identified.
- Separate power chords from data cables to reduce, if not eliminate, interference.
Power problems
Any IT infrastructure is vulnerable to a sudden power surge or outage. These are often beyond your control and can cause hardware damage or costly downtime. Worse, you’ll suffer data corruption and loss of data if you don’t have a backup.
How to fix it:
- Install reliable uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
- Guard against voltage spikes by using surge protectors.
- Regularly test your backup systems.
Dust and environmental hazards
Don’t scoff at dust and think it’s not a big deal. Dust, as well as excess humidity and water leaks, is the often overlooked enemy of hardware.
How to fix it:
- Keep your server room dust-free with scheduled cleanings.
- Install inexpensive sensors to monitor humidity.
- Place servers off the floor and away from water pipes and sprinklers.
Security gaps
Criminals know the importance of server rooms, as they hold the keys to your business data. No wonder business servers are considered prime targets for physical and digital threats.
How to fix it:
- Make your server room a restricted area accessible only to authorized staff.
- Use 24/7 surveillance and access logs.
- Digital security such as firewalls aren’t enough; reinforce them with physical protection like high-grade locks.
Lack of monitoring and maintenance
It’s not unusual for SMB owners to assume that their servers will just “run itself.” Thus, serious warning signs such as odd noises and slower performance go unnoticed or are ignored until they reveal serious issues.
How to fix it:
- Install monitoring tools that will track performance and uptime.
- Schedule routine inspections with IT professionals.
- Prepare a response plan in case of problems.
Why SMBs should take these issues seriously
Downtime can be disastrous for SMBs. Besides halting operations and frustrating customers, downtime will also damage an SMB’s reputation. This makes effective server room management essential for modern businesses.
But SMBs may not feel qualified to handle their IT infrastructure, and they may not have enough IT manpower to take on that responsibility. That’s where partnering with a managed IT services provider (MSP) can be advantageous to SMBs. An MSP can run and secure their systems for them, including keeping server rooms cool, clean, organized, and safe.
Consider partnering with Kortek Solutions to streamline your IT infrastructure and stay ahead of potential issues. Contact us today, and let us help you keep your systems running properly.