Server or Desktop: Does it Matter?

When thinking about tools and platforms for your business, it can sometimes be difficult to define the line between cutting costs, improving workflow efficiency, and setting up diminishing returns. Oftentimes, small businesses or startups may be tempted to use a desktop or laptop computer as a cheaper alternative to a dedicated server. This mistake can not only put you at risk of data loss, but also could have your business miss out on some of the best perks of a dedicated server.

In short, yes – not only does it matter in terms of preventing data loss, but servers offer many functions your regular desktop computer cannot perform the same way. Understanding the difference between the two can help you easily understand your business's need for a server.

Why Do I Need a Server?

For a business, a server is engineered to manage and store data nonstop – 24/7, for all 365 days of the year. Sending, storing, and processing data all this time can put a huge strain on a hard drive, leading to increased wear that a standard computer is not equipped to handle. Server hard drives are rated for constant read/write access and are made with much more robust parts.

Using a server for your business gives you network and file security, it increases your reliability, and creates a centralized backup for your files, data, and other resources. Servers are also built to handle virus management much better than your desktops, making them much more secure for your business.

So, What is My Desktop For?

While most desktop computers may have the ability to run a server operating system, that is not enough to qualify it to be used for your business. Our desktop systems are designed to run user-friendly operating systems with the speed and capacity for one user. Desktops are not always online or powered on, and can require restarting the system to implement certain updates. These systems are perfectly fine for handling your everyday tasks, from running desktop applications, checking your email, or performing other desktop-oriented tasks.

How We Can Help

At Technical Resource Solutions, we believe that every business has different needs and resources. We can help you access your server needs as a business, ensuring that you can perform business reliably, securely, and with all the added benefits of a server. Contact us today to learn more about your company's needs and the limits caused by using a desktop in place of a server.