If it ain’t broke why fix it, right? Well, when it comes to your server, that’s the WRONG answer. While it may be true for many things, waiting for something to go wrong with your server or let it “die” is a risk you do not want to take.
Your server is perhaps the most expensive item in your computer network. Having to replace or repair it is definitely a difficult decision to make. Due to the cost, time, and complexity of making this decision, we often see cases where users postpone dealing with their server until it is too late. Depending on how you use your server, such as running a local instance of your EMR solution a failure can mean hours if not days of lost work for your clinic. Think of time it will take to repair, find parts, recover data, or find a new server which will have to be re-configured. All that time lost can add up to a significantly higher cost than the cost of replacing your server.
When it comes to servers, many years of experience has shown us that a preventative approach is always better, cheaper and frustration free compared to a reactive approach.
How can you tell if your server needs to be replaced?
Its time has come: A server is expected to last 3-4 years without issues which is also when their warranty usually expires. Once the warranty expires, the manufacturer is under no obligation to support you. As the server gets older, replacement parts are harder to find and are often quite expensive. Even if a server seems to be running properly, security is another concern. As updated operating systems are released to support newer servers, there comes a point where manufacturers stop creating security patches for old equipment, leaving them vulnerable to malware attacks and viruses.
The server is slow and noisy: The noise is a result of your hard drives and cooling fans working harder to keep things operational. At the same time, the server will most likely be much slower, affecting everyone’s performance and productivity.
Too many issues in the day: If your staff has trouble connecting, they’re getting dropped off the network, or you need to keep restarting the server, these may be a signs that the server needs to be replaced. Servers should be enabling your productivity in the background without your need to keep interfering to get them running properly.
The server fails: This is too obvious but rather than repairing it, it may be time you start looking for a new machine.
What are your options?
Don’t wait for your server to fail. Contact our support team and we can discuss your options. Depending on the condition and age of your server you may still be able to purchase an extended warranty. This can buy you some time and give you peace of mind knowing that your server is protected should there be an issue.
If extended warranty is not an option, we can help you choose the best server for your EMR at the best price due to our volume purchasing.
Last but not least, if you have not done so yet, sign up for a BlueBird server support contract. For a low monthly fee, we will monitor your server 24/7 and perform all proactive maintenance to ensure you get the most out of your investment.
Feel free to call us at 888.930.9933 or send us an email at info@bluebirdinc.com and we’ll be happy to discuss your needs and best options for your practice.