Quote needed for replacing a Server

[Lino]

We have a server at work that I am looking at throwing out *2003 SBS* box. I want to replace it with:

Windows Server 2008 R2
Exchange 2010
Microsoft Forefront Management Gateway

That basically handles the software for the new box. However I want a server with at least 8GB of RAM, 4TB of RAID-5 Storage, etc etc. However I need serious help with all of this, can anyone assist me with this please?

*Note a UNIX firewall is not and I repeat not an option*

 

[The_Unbeliever]

You have two choices :

Intel-based with RAID-6 (depending on the motherboard you'll need to purchase an additional RAID controller)

HP-based ProLiant ML360 Gx servers - we have both the Intel and HP ProLiants in the field, and they are very reliable.

Only had a faulty motherboard on an HP ProLiant once, but that was the only issue we've had - as the server was under warranty, HP replaced the motherboard on site.

As for the RAID controller - you get software included with the Intel RAID controller with which you can monitor the health of the RAID controller. The HP ProLiant might also have the same option. This is a must as you can be warned when the RAID is degraded.

iLO (integrated lights out option) is also a plus as most of these will allow you to remotely reboot/control the server should it not be responding. Take note that I haven't tried out this option yet.

Assuming that you'll be installing 8Gb of RAM - you'll need a 64-bit OS to utilize the address space.

If I can make a suggestion - purchase an extra server2008 licence, and 64-bit workstation, and use that for a backup DC. Just because. If the workstation's HDD is large enough, you can mirror critical data to this hard drive. Also just because. Remember Mr Murphy?

Why isn't Unix/Linux as firewall not an option?

 

[The_Unbeliever]

Also - hot swap hard drives is nice to have... getting a server with hot-swap HDD bay is worth it.

 

[TheGuy]

Also make sure you get SAS drives. Don't use SATA drives they are too slow.

 

[Lino]

@G1mpz I got a few emails from you and now nothing. My budget is R35 000 excluding software

 

[Lino]

No problem, it is a short-term project but I do want to propose it soon to the MD.