Network installation and upgrades: When to replace or upgrade servers

When considering network installation and upgrades, you must decide between completely replacing your servers or upgrading existing components. Each option has its pros and cons based on your organization’s needs.

For further assistance, this article covers:

• The difference between a server replacement and upgrade
• When to replace your network vs. when to upgrade (including the signs)
• 10-step guide for completing a network installation for a server replacement or upgrade
• How Meter’s Network as a Service (NaaS) handles it all for you

Server replacement vs. upgrade—What’s the difference?

Replacement and upgrade might sound similar, but in the world of networking, they mean different things.

A server replacement:

• Involves swapping out the current server for a new one
• Addresses issues related to outdated hardware or severe performance limitations
• Often provides a significant boost in performance, security, and capabilities
• May require more time, planning, and budget due to procurement and setup
• Removes older servers that cannot handle current or future demands

Whereas a server upgrade:

• Enhances the existing server by improving components such as RAM, storage, or CPU
• Saves money compared to a full replacement
• Extends the server’s usable life while boosting its performance
• Causes minimal disruption to the network, making it ideal for maintaining continuity
• Suits servers still within their functional lifespan but needing a power boost

Knowing when to replace or upgrade can greatly benefit your business in the long run.

Network installation and upgrades: When to replace and when to upgrade servers

Replacing servers can feel like hitting the reset button with better technology. You get improved performance and more reliability, but it can come with higher costs and the chance of temporary downtime. Planning ahead helps, so scheduling replacements during maintenance windows can keep disruptions to a minimum (and your IT team a bit less stressed).

Conversely, upgrading parts of your current servers is often easier on the budget and less disruptive. The downside? Upgrades might not fully prepare your network for future growth. Weighing these options carefully helps find the best way to keep your network steady and ready for what's next.

Deciding between a server replacement or an upgrade comes down to a few things.

Server age

If your server is more than 5-7 years old, it’s probably showing its age. Practical advice? Run a health check on it. Look for signs like:

• Slower processing
• Frequent crashes
• Trouble handling updates

Meter’s dashboard provides visibility into network health and performance.

If your server struggles with daily tasks or applications lag during busy periods, it might be reaching its limits in:

• Processing power
• Memory
• Storage

Frequent slowdowns, recurring outages, and a need for constant repairs signal that your server could be at the end of its lifespan. While quick fixes might help temporarily, the cumulative cost of repairs and productivity loss adds up fast. Persistent failures can disrupt business operations, affect revenue, and damage your reputation.

Older servers are also more prone to hardware failures, leading to longer outages and possible data loss. In these cases, investing in a newer, reliable model can help reduce long-term costs and enhance productivity by keeping things running more consistently.

Performance needs

What’s your server doing, and can it handle the load? If your current server is struggling, a network upgrade could help meet increasing performance demands temporarily. However, if it’s already gasping for air with your current workload, an upgrade might not cut it. Replacing the server could be a better move if you need more speed and power to keep up with demand.

Budget considerations

Budget talks might not be fun, but they’re necessary. Upgrading an existing server generally costs less upfront than buying a new one, with expenses often limited to:

• Extra memory
• Storage
• Software licenses

Replacing a server, however, involves a bigger initial investment for new hardware and possibly new software.

But don’t just look at the sticker price. Long-term costs tell the real story. Newer servers often come with perks like energy efficiency and warranties that can lower ongoing maintenance and power bills. Older servers, even with upgrades, may lead to higher energy use and more frequent repairs due to aging tech.

Cost-benefit analysis

A good cost-benefit analysis should weigh both direct and indirect costs over the server's lifecycle. Direct costs include the purchase and installation, while indirect ones cover maintenance, support, and energy use over time.

While upgrading might be cheaper upfront, repeated repairs or disruptions can add up. On the other hand, the higher initial cost of replacing servers could pay off through:

• Better performance
• Fewer disruptions
• Lower long-term expenses

Keep in mind that new server integration needs careful planning to avoid unexpected downtime or configuration issues.

Downtime and disruption

Nobody likes downtime—it’s like a power nap your business didn’t sign up for. Replacing a server usually takes more time and planning than an upgrade, so think about how much disruption you can handle. If your team can manage a longer pause, replacement might be on the table.

Compatibility and future growth

New hardware or software may not always play nice with your existing setup, leading to unexpected conflicts or delays. In some cases, this can mean replacing other network components, which adds time and cost.

To avoid these surprises, do a full check of your current infrastructure and consult vendor guides. Testing in a controlled environment before rolling out changes can catch issues early and save a lot of trouble later.

Thinking long-term? If your business is planning for more data or more users, an upgrade might only be a short-term fix. Replacing your server could be a better move for added power and flexibility.

Make sure any new or upgraded server integrates well with the rest of your network, especially if it supports critical applications. Testing how it interacts with your current setup can help identify any needed changes to configurations or security settings before going live.

Security features

Security isn’t something to skimp on. Newer servers come packed with features like:

• Advanced encryption
• Better access controls
• Built-in firewalls

They also have extras like automatic threat monitoring and secure boot features to help keep the bad guys out.

If your server has reached its end-of-life (EOL), it won’t get updates or security patches anymore, which means it’s like leaving your front door wide open. Hackers love old, unpatched servers. Keeping up with firmware updates and regular patching is a must for staying safe. If your current server can’t do that, it might be time to think about an upgrade or a full replacement.

Ignoring those EOL notices can be risky. Weigh whether a simple upgrade can keep things secure or if swapping out your old server for a new one is the way to go for better long-term peace of mind.

Keep in mind

Replacing a server brings big benefits but costs more. Upgrading is easier on the budget and can give your current server a nice boost. So, if your server’s hanging on by a thread, replace it. If it just needs a little help to keep up, go for the upgrade.

How to install a server replacement or upgrade

Completing a network installation for either a server replacement or an upgrade doesn’t have to feel like navigating a maze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to keep you on track.

1. Plan the project

Outline your goals, timeline, and budget. Decide if the job is an upgrade, a full server replacement, or both. Get all the stakeholders on board so everyone knows what to expect.

Avoid delays at all costs. Delaying upgrades or replacements for too long could result in significant issues down the road. The following could go wrong when you put off server upgrades:

• Increased risk of server failure
• Performance slowdowns
• Security vulnerabilities
• Compatibility limitations
• Higher maintenance costs
• Disruption to future projects
• Loss of support

Though it may feel like a shortcut to delay an upgrade, the roadblocks created could be costly. Plan the project early and get all stakeholders onboard so everyone is aware of the risks and benefits.

2. Assess current infrastructure

Take a close look at your current server setup. Check for compatibility with new hardware or software and identify any potential issues that could pop up during installation.

3. Back up all data

Before making any changes, backup your data. Seriously, don’t skip this step—it’s like double-checking you have your keys before locking the door.

4. Prepare the environment

Make sure the server room or data center is set up to handle new hardware. This includes:

• Adequate cooling
• Power supply
• Enough space

For upgrades, make sure the existing infrastructure can support the new components.

5. Install the hardware

For an upgrade, add the new components (like RAM or storage) to the existing server. For a replacement, install the new server according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure everything is securely connected.

6. Configure the server

Power up the server and configure the settings. This includes:

• Updating the BIOS
• Installing the operating system
• Applying necessary firmware updates

If it’s an upgrade, adjust the server settings to recognize the new components.

7. Migrate the data

Move your data from the old server or from the old components to the new setup. Migrating data is not as straightforward as it sounds. It can come with its fair share of obstacles, including:

• Data corruption or loss
• Compatibility issues
• Downtime
• Data volume
• Network bandwidth limitations
• Security concerns
• Post-migration issues

Use automated migration tools to make this step easier. Test the data transfer to verify everything made it over intact.

8. Test the installation

Run performance and functionality tests to make sure the server is working as expected. Check for compatibility with other network devices and applications. For upgrades, confirm that the new components are properly integrated.

9. Monitor for issues

Keep an eye on the server for a few days after installation. Watch for any performance issues or errors and address them promptly. Monitoring in this period helps catch anything that might have slipped through initial testing.

10. Document the process

Record what was done, including configuration settings, any challenges faced, and how they were resolved. Doing so makes future troubleshooting easier and helps with planning the next upgrade or replacement.

Whether you opt for a full computer network installation or a targeted network upgrade, planning and execution are important to maintaining a reliable and secure setup.

How Meter’s NaaS helps with network installation and upgrades

Meter’s Network as a Service (NaaS) is designed to simplify network installation and upgrades, taking the stress out of managing server replacements and enhancements. Our approach focuses on delivering optimal performance and reliability, allowing your organization to stay ahead without getting bogged down by the complexities of network infrastructure.

From choosing and configuring the right servers to providing continuous monitoring and support, Meter handles many aspects of network infrastructure management, freeing your IT staff to focus on other strategic priorities.

With Meter, you're partnering with experts dedicated to keeping your network up-to-date and reliable.

Here's how Meter makes network installation and upgrades straightforward:

• Automatic hardware updates: Meter’s NaaS includes automatic updates for network hardware (i.e. routers, switches) as technology advances, so outdated components are replaced as needed.
• Total network management: Our NaaS covers server replacements and upgrades, handling everything from evaluating existing infrastructure to full installation.
• Support with ISP negotiations and network design: We assist in negotiating with ISPs and develop scalable network designs tailored to your business, simplifying server replacement or upgrade decisions.
• Continuous monitoring and support: Post-installation, we provide ongoing monitoring and continued support to maintain performance.

Contact us today and find out more about what our NaaS can do for your business.