What a server is, and whether you still need one

What it does

A server is a computer built to run constantly and provide something to the other computers in a business. Common jobs:

• Files: the shared drive everyone saves to.
• Applications: accounting, practice management, design or manufacturing software that several people use at once.
• Sign-ins: the system that controls who can log on to office computers.
• Printing and backups in some offices.

Do you still need one?

Many server jobs have moved to the cloud. Shared files fit well in SharePoint and OneDrive. Sign-ins can move to Microsoft 365. Many applications now come as online services.

Some reasons to keep a server, or a server in the cloud:

• An application that only runs on your own server.
• Very large files, such as design or video work, with a slow internet connection.
• Equipment on a shop floor that needs a local system.

Signs it is time to decide

• The server is more than five years old or out of warranty.
• Its operating system is reaching the end of support.
• Staff struggle to reach files when working remotely.
• Nobody is sure what it does, or how it is backed up.