Data center hardware and strategy
Data center hardware includes a broad range of devices. Hardware components that make up the IT infrastructure of a data center include servers and computing equipment, networking equipment and storage equipment, plus additional infrastructure to support it like power and cooling systems. Get insights into developing a data center hardware strategy.
Top Stories
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Feature
15 Apr 2025
Quantum AI: Explaining how it will impact the business world
Quantum computers could boost AI with faster training on big data and better problem-solving abilities. But combining the two in practical business applications could take years. Continue Reading
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News
09 Apr 2025
Google Cloud Platform adds WAN and on-premises AI services
A handful of infrastructure announcements for the Google Cloud Platform debut at Next 2025 including a Cloud WAN service, on-premises Gemini AI and new AI chips. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jul 2024
What is Ceph?
Ceph is an open source software solution that provides a unified system for enterprise-level object, block- and file-based storage. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jul 2024
What is Dell EMC?
Dell EMC is an American multinational technology company that offers products and services across all areas of computing, networking and storage. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jul 2024
What is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a device that allows a computer to keep running for at least a short time when incoming power is interrupted. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jul 2024
What is a headless server?
A headless server is a computer without a local interface to interact with. Headless means that it does not have a monitor or other peripherals such as a keyboard and mouse. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2024
white box server
A white box server is a data center computer that is not manufactured by a well-known name-brand vendor. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2024
Vblock (VCE Vblock)
Vblock (VCE Vblock) is a family of converged infrastructure (CI) systems from Dell EMC that integrate advanced compute, network and storage technologies from three industry leaders: VMware, Cisco and Dell EMC. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jul 2024
JetCool CEO on liquid cooling and the modern data center
In this Q&A, JetCool's CEO talks about the growing interest in liquid cooling and how it's being used to divert heat away from compute so that bigger workloads can run consistently. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jul 2024
Storj buys Valdi for cloud compute to bolster storage offers
The acquisition brings Storj's distributed storage offerings together with Valdi's distributed compute services for high-performance workloads, including generative AI. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jul 2024
scalability
In information technology, scalability (frequently spelled 'scaleability') has two uses: for a computer application to function with change in size and volume, and to take advantage of a rescale. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jul 2024
field-replaceable unit (FRU)
In electronic hardware, particularly computer systems, a field-replaceable unit (FRU) is a circuit board or part that can be easily removed and replaced by the user or technician without having to send the product or system to a repair facility. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jul 2024
twisted pair
Twisted pair is the ordinary copper wire that connects home and business computers to a telephone company. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jul 2024
ISAM (Indexed Sequential Access Method)
ISAM (Indexed Sequential Access Method) is a file management system developed at IBM that enables records to be accessed either sequentially, in the order they were entered or randomly with an index. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jul 2024
What is VSAM (Virtual Storage Access Method)?
Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM) is an access method for IBM's mainframe operating system, MVS, now called z/OS. Continue Reading
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News
01 Jul 2024
SK Hynix's $75B investment in AI chips shows a growing trend
The South Korea-based chipmaker responds to the growing demand for AI memory chips with a big investment through 2028. Meanwhile, memory chipmakers step up production. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2024
Lenovo expands AI offerings, liquid cooling
Lenovo sets itself apart from others by offering configured AI products to speed deployment and shape direction, while also expanding liquid cooling to lower costs. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2024
A primer on Ceph storage technology, products
Ceph is a scalable distributed storage platform that can evolve as needed. Take a deep dive into its popularity, assorted offerings and how to get around challenges. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jun 2024
Next steps to consider before CentOS 7 end of life
In today's world of security threats, it's critical to keep OSes up to date. As the end-of-life date for CentOS 7 approaches, companies can no longer delay distribution migration. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Jun 2024
Artificial intelligence, Nvidia took center stage at HPE Discover 2024
With many organizations developing or evaluating generative AI initiatives, HPE increased its commitment to the space through a broad partnership with Nvidia. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jun 2024
second-level address translation (SLAT)
Second-level address translation (SLAT) is a hardware virtualization technology that reduces hypervisor overhead. SLAT is now available in many kinds of processors, including those from Intel and AMD. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jun 2024
Strategies for simplifying network complexity
Experts at the Cisco Live 2024 conference discussed the future of AI in networks and how its use can help simplify network and data center operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jun 2024
lithium polymer battery (LiPo)
A lithium polymer battery is a rechargeable battery with a polymer electrolyte instead of a liquid electrolyte. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jun 2024
HPE to offer KVM virtualization for GreenLake private cloud
HPE debuts its virtualization capability for HPE Private Cloud later this year as an integrated GreenLake alternative to third-party vendors such as VMware, Nutanix or Red Hat. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jun 2024
HPE GreenLake adds GenAI capabilities as on-premises PaaS
HPE GreenLake debuts a new PaaS offering for enterprise GenAI development, co-created with Nvidia. HPE also updated OpsRamp and server hardware refreshes for AI workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2024
8 green computing best practices
As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, these sustainability best practices can help your data center go greener, which benefits both your business and the environment. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2024
StorMagic debuts HCI, hypervisor as VMware alternative
StorMagic looks to court customers with smaller data centers for SMBs and the edge with SvHCI, a new VMware alternative with a KVM-based hypervisor and HCI capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jun 2024
memristor
A memristor is an electrical component that limits or regulates the flow of electrical current in a circuit and remembers the amount of charge that has previously flowed through it. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jun 2024
Intel launches Xeon 6 for AI data centers
This month, Intel will launch the first of its Xeon 6 data center silicon that offers two microarchitectures, one for performance and the other for power efficiency. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 May 2024
form factor
In computing, form factor refers to the size, configuration, shape, weight or physical arrangement of a computing device. Continue Reading
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News
30 May 2024
Dell exec looks back at history when considering AI's future
In this Q&A, Dell's Matt Baker lays out how its AI Factory is designed for faster AI adoption, why there are so many chatbots and how AI might affect the workforce of the future. Continue Reading
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News
23 May 2024
Dell AI Factory curates AI tech for customers
Dell showcased its AI Factory at Dell Technologies World 2024, and some early customers are already talking about the lift AI has given their businesses. Continue Reading
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News
20 May 2024
Dell refines AI factory, expands Nvidia partnership
The Dell AI Factory took center stage at Dell Technologies World with new infrastructure additions, a broader AI ecosystem and an expanded partnership with Nvidia. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2024
VMware Cloud on AWS now sold exclusively by Broadcom
Broadcom discontinues AWS as a reseller of VMware Cloud on AWS, further evidence that it wants hands-on control of how the VM technology is sold, supported and distributed. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2024
technological convergence
Technological convergence is a term that describes bringing previously unrelated technologies together, often in a single device. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2024
information technology (IT)
Information technology (IT) is the use of computers, storage, networking and other physical devices, infrastructure and processes to create, process, store, secure and exchange all forms of electronic data. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2024
nanosecond (ns or nsec)
A nanosecond (ns or nsec) is one-billionth (10-9) of a second. A nanosecond is a measure of time that has many practical applications, particularly in computer science and IT. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 May 2024
Nutanix
Nutanix is a private and hybrid cloud software provider. It started as a hyperconverged infrastructure pioneer that now markets its technology as a building block for private clouds. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2024
What to know about hybrid data center security strategies
Cybersecurity is critical to protect data and systems. Admins of hybrid data centers must understand the risks of a hybrid model and how specific cyberattacks can be prevented. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2024
PowerFlex (formerly ScaleIO)
PowerFlex is a software-defined storage product from Dell EMC. It is available as software only or as a prebuilt Dell server or rack appliance. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2024
data center
A data center is a facility composed of networked computers, storage systems and computing infrastructure that organizations use to assemble, process, store and disseminate large amounts of data. Continue Reading
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News
24 Apr 2024
Lenovo, AMD broaden AI options for customers
Lenovo is expanding its partnership with AMD to bring more options for servers and HCI devices aimed at AI. It also launched an AI advisory and professional services offering for customers. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2024
power cycling
Power cycling is the process of turning hardware off and then turning it on again. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2024
Dell partners with Intel, releases file storage for Azure
With the recent Intel and Azure partnerships, Dell continues to expand its on-premises options for AI while expanding its Apex data file services in the cloud. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2024
How Intel's new AI Gaudi 3 chip compares with Nvidia chips
The new chip matches the Nvidia H100 but lacks in performance compared with the Nvidia Blackwell. The vendor also introduced new edge computing offerings. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2024
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe, PCI-E)
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe or PCI-E) is a serial expansion bus standard for connecting a computer to one or more peripheral devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2024
data center services
Data center services provide the supporting components necessary to the proper operation of a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2024
IOPS (input/output operations per second)
IOPS (input/output operations per second) is the standard unit of measurement for the maximum number of reads/writes to noncontiguous storage locations. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Mar 2024
RAID 3 (redundant array of independent disks 3)
RAID 3 (redundant array of independent disks 3) is a RAID configuration that uses a parity disk to store the information generated by a RAID controller and uses striping to store the data. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2024
converged infrastructure
Converged infrastructure, sometimes called 'converged architecture,' is an approach to data center management that packages compute, networking, servers, storage and virtualization tools into a prequalified set of IT hardware. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2024
Nvidia partners, customers drive AI into data centers
Nvidia and its partners are providing the tools and infrastructure to build and deploy AI applications that companies say could transform their businesses. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Mar 2024
A primer on multiactuator HDD technology
Enterprise data centers will soon need HDDs that can exceed today's capacities. Multiactuators, which are on the rise in HDDs, may help solve the problem. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2024
RAID 50 (RAID 5+0)
RAID 50, also known as RAID 5+0, combines distributed parity (RAID 5) with striping (RAID 0). It requires a minimum of six drives. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2024
off-site backup
Off-site backup is a method of backing up data to a remote server or to media that's transported off-site. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2024
Use AI tools to simplify operations inside your data center
AI is a cornerstone technology that will be part of future-proofing the data center. It will control operations like cooling, network optimization and configuration management. Continue Reading
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News
18 Mar 2024
Nvidia unveils new AI Blackwell chip, microservices and more
The vendor launched a barrage of AI tech including faster chips in its new Blackwell infrastructure and new microservices that enable enterprises to create custom applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2024
printed circuit board (PCB)
A printed circuit board (PCB) is a structure for assembling electronic components and their connections into a unified circuit that allows electrical current to pass between components. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2024
context switch
A context switch is an operation that a computer's central processing unit (CPU) carries out when alternating between processes or threads while ensuring that the processes do not conflict. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2024
RAM (random access memory)
Random access memory (RAM) is the hardware in a computing device that provides temporary storage for the operating system (OS), software programs and any other data in current use so they're quickly available to the device's processor. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Feb 2024
School district shares experience moving to HPE GreenLake
A California school district placed its server and storage infrastructure in the hands of HPE GreenLake. Its IT director shares the roadblocks he experienced and the benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2024
XML vs. YAML: Compare configuration file formats
Databases use data serialization languages, like XML and YAML, to transfer data between applications. XML and YAML have different strengths; admins should know how to use each correctly. Continue Reading
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Opinion
07 Feb 2024
Will 2024 herald an on-premises infrastructure renaissance?
The storage market and buyer feelings have changed considerably in just a few years. Enterprises often see more benefits to on-premises infrastructure than the cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2024
consumption-based pricing model
A consumption-based pricing model is a service provision and payment scheme in which customers pay according to the resources they use. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2024
Astera Labs uses CXL to accelerate AI, expand memory
Astera Labs is using the CXL interface in its now longer Smart Cable Module to spread out energy consumption while enabling GPU clusters to meet growing AI demands. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jan 2024
720p
720p is a high-definition (HD) display standard used to describe the resolution of a television or computer display that measures 1280 x 720 pixels. As such, each complete raster in the display's image has 1280 vertical lines and 720 horizontal lines. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Server hardware guide: Architecture, products and management
Today's server platforms offer a host of options for SMBs and enterprise IT buyers; it's important to learn the essentials before making any purchasing decisions. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
shingled magnetic recording (SMR)
Shingled magnetic recording (SMR) is a technique for writing data to a hard disk drive (HDD) whereby the data tracks partially overlap to increase the areal density and overall storage capacity per disk. Continue Reading
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Opinion
10 Jan 2024
How 2024 GenAI investment will transform data centers
Companies are quickly adopting generative AI, and with this, the focus has shifted toward hybrid cloud environments, which spans from data center services on and off premises. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2024
dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS)
Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) is the adjustment of power and speed settings on a computing device's various processors, controller chips and peripheral devices to optimize resource allotment for tasks and maximize power saving when those resources are not needed. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jan 2024
Where AI and quantum computing meet
Quantum computing may be years away from practical enterprise applications, but it's getting closer. We talked with IBM's quantum adoption leader to see where we're at right now. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2024
configuration management database (CMDB)
A configuration management database (CMDB) is a file -- usually in the form of a standardized database -- that contains all relevant information about the hardware and software components used in an organization's IT services and the relationships among those components. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2024
colocation (colo)
A colocation facility (colo) is a data center or telecommunications facility in which a business can rent space for servers, storage devices, and other computing and networking hardware. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jan 2024
A primer on AI chip design
Four common AI chips -- CPU, GPU, FPGA and ASIC -- are advancing with the current market for AI chip design. Read on to see what the future holds for AI chips. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jan 2024
How to purchase the best server hardware for small businesses
Before buying a server, it's important to assess an SMB's needs. Review these seven steps outlining the factors an organization should consider before purchasing a server. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Dec 2023
iSCSI initiator
An Internet Small Computer System Interface initiator is software or hardware that lets a host computer send data to an external iSCSI-based storage array through an Ethernet network adapter over a TCP-based IP network. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2023
A rundown of server hardware vendors and the server options
Discover and compare the leading vendors in server hardware with these in-depth overviews of the blade, rack and mainframe computers available to see which may be best for you. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2023
Lenovo's new ThinkSystem, ThinkAgile offerings aimed at AI
Lenovo has added the latest generation of Intel CPUs to new ThinkSystem servers and ThinkAgile HCI appliances to better address enterprise AI needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2023
Improve efficiency with server energy consumption tools
Deciding what servers are most efficient for your infrastructure requires research. Hardware-level certifications and web-based tools can help you select the right option. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Dec 2023
Rack vs. blade server: What's the difference?
Components in a physical data center are held in rack servers or blade servers. Learn the differences, what type of environment you need and which server uses work best. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Dec 2023
Dive into the history of server hardware
Server hardware has consistently evolved since the first web server in 1990. Here's a look at major advancements in management, virtualization and green initiatives. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2023
hyperconverged appliance (HCI appliance)
A hyperconverged appliance (HCI appliance) is a hardware device that provides multiple data center management technologies within a single box. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Dec 2023
Use ASHRAE guidelines to get server temperature right
Follow ASHRAE's guidelines to set up the right facility for your hardware by understanding proper conditions, such as filtration and inlet air temperature recommendations. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Dec 2023
HDD form factor (hard disk drive form factor)
HDD form factor (hard disk drive form factor) is the size or geometry of a data storage device equipped with one or more magnetic-coated spinning platters and one or more moving actuator arms with magnetic heads to read and write information. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2023
AMD Instinct MI300 AI accelerator takes aim at Nvidia GPUs
Data center-grade GPUs and accelerators for enterprise customers and cloud vendors are the new battleground for AI hardware. AMD and Google advance the race with new chips. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Dec 2023
hardware RAID (hardware redundant array of independent disk)
Hardware RAID is a form of RAID (redundant array of independent disks) where processing is done on the motherboard or a separate RAID card. Continue Reading
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News
05 Dec 2023
IBM quantum computers make sizable leap
The largest enterprises now invest in quantum computing strategies -- but it's still a long way off for the typical business. IBM's Condor and Heron QPUs accelerate its arrival. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2023
Essential components and tools of server monitoring
Server monitoring requires a list of the right tools to use and infrastructure components to watch. A workflow with these concepts ensures uptime and helps usage predictions. Continue Reading
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News
28 Nov 2023
VMware layoffs a familiar Broadcom story
Broadcom has started laying off VMware employees this week, a move that reminds some of how it proceeded when it acquired CA Technologies in 2018. Continue Reading
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News
22 Nov 2023
Broadcom completes VMware acquisition, promises investment
Broadcom plans to invest in VMware products that enable enterprises to build and modernize their private and hybrid cloud environments, Broadcom CEO Hock Tan said. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Nov 2023
x86-64
x86-64 (also called x86_64, x64, or amd64) is the 64-bit CPU architecture that is used in Intel and AMD processors. It is an extension to the 32-bit x86 (i386) architecture. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Nov 2023
graphics processing unit (GPU)
A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a computer chip that renders graphics and images by performing rapid mathematical calculations. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Nov 2023
end of life (EOL)
End of life (EOL), in the context of manufacturing and product lifecycles, is the final stages of a product's existence. Continue Reading
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News
26 Oct 2023
Dell-Red Hat tackle DIY OpenShift deployments with appliance
Expanding its partnership with Red Hat, Dell is now offering OpenShift as a validated appliance for on-premises container deployment and management. Continue Reading
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Opinion
25 Oct 2023
Key themes emerge from Lenovo's 2023 analyst conference
Enterprise Strategy Group looks at Lenovo's 2023 Global Industry Analyst Conference and how the company is taking a more holistic view, with a focus on AI and sustainability. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
remote hands
Remote hands is the general name for a service colocation providers offer that enables customers to delegate IT management and maintenance tasks in a colocation facility to technicians hired by the provider. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
power-on reset (PoR)
A power-on reset (PoR) is a circuit that provides a predictable, regulated voltage to a microprocessor or microcontroller with the initial application of power. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Oct 2023
brownfield (brownfield deployment, brownfield site)
A brownfield deployment, in information technology, is the installation and configuration of new hardware or software that must coexist with legacy IT systems. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
OFDMA (orthogonal frequency-division multiple access)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) is a technology of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) that lets access points serve multiple clients at the same time. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
optical mouse
An optical mouse is an advanced computer pointing device that uses a light-emitting diode (LED), optical sensor and digital signal processor (DSP) in place of the traditional mouse ball and electromechanical transducer. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
DisplayPort
DisplayPort is an interface for digital displays, particularly computer monitors. Continue Reading
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News
02 Oct 2023
Edge AI server market grows
Rapid data growth and the need to process it at the edge is expanding opportunities in the server market, with new entries from Unigen and Lenovo. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Sep 2023
How SSD encryption can protect enterprise data
It's easy for an SSD to fall into the wrong hands. Encryption, which is common in SSDs, is a powerful tool to protect mission-critical and personal data. Continue Reading