Server Procurement Best Practices

Avoid overspending on hardware while keeping uptime targets. Use this procurement framework when planning refreshes in Ghanaian and UK data centers.

Right-Size the Workload

• Profile CPU/RAM/disk usage from the last 90 days; size with 30% growth buffer.
• Prefer NVMe for transactional workloads; RAID 10 for balanced speed and resilience.
• Use dual PSUs and NIC bonding for critical servers.

Power & Environment

• Pair racks with UPS sized for at least 15–20 minutes and tested quarterly.
• Monitor temperature/humidity; enable SNMP traps to NOC for anomalies.
• Label power paths and document failover steps.

Security & Compliance

• Disable unused ports, enforce BIOS/ILO passwords, and update firmware before production.
• Encrypt drives where regulations require; log physical access to racks.
• Use vendor-signed firmware only; block unsigned images.

Lifecycle & Support

• Standardize on certified vendors (HP, Dell, Cisco) for warranty-backed parts.
• Keep a cold spare drive and PSU per rack; document part numbers.
• Plan refresh at 4–5 years; budget earlier for high I/O workloads.