During the economic downturn, many of our clients deferred server upgrades for longer than is wise or recommended. Now that the worst of the recession seems over, many companies are replacing aged file servers. In addition to the usual Windows Server replacement options, we have a new option for you to consider: a Cloud-connected server appliance.
SpireTech’s cloud appliances from Ctera are less expensive than a comparable Windows Server replacement, and offer additional features, such as the ability to work from home or on the road without using a VPN, and easy file collaboration with outside partners and consultants. However, there are some things the appliances don’t do.
As you can see in the table below, there are still many good reasons to own a Windows Server. Many clients need to run specific applications directly on the Windows Server, or need Active Directory functionality for security and control of large amounts of users. Many of the same challenges you would have moving to a cloud-only environment, you may also have with moving to a Ctera appliance.
| Feature Comparison Matrix | ||
| Feature | Ctera | Windows |
| Easy remote access | X | |
| iPad/iPhone/Android app | X | |
| Share with outside partners/consultants | X | |
| Includes offsite backup | X | |
| Internal File server and shares | X | X |
| Works internally when internet is down | X | X |
| Domain controller (active directory) | X | |
| DHCP and DNS Server | X | |
| Functions as Print Server | X | |
| Application server support | X | |
| Web server support | X |
Contact SpireTech to discuss if a Ctera server appliance would be appropriate for you. If not, we can still help you upgrade your Windows Server!