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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News
21 Nov 2024
Nvidia Blackwell GPU production ramps up amid revenue surge
Nvidia's Blackwell GPU production is 'full steam' ahead as revenue surges with AI demand. Continue Reading
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News
20 Nov 2024
Object storage, VM offerings emerge for HPE GreenLake
HPE aims to attract new customers to its GreenLake ecosystem by launching standalone virtualization software. It also eyes AI ambitions with new object storage hardware. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2022
Evaluate 5G networks vs. 4G for data centers
5G networking requires organizations and data centers to support IoT, while 4G requires increased machinery. Learn more about the differences between 5G and 4G for data centers. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2022
Intel's data center strategy rests on accelerator chips
Intel will release three generations of 200 GB, 400 GB and 800 GB infrastructure processing units over the next four years. The first two generations will include ASICs and FPGAs. Continue Reading
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News
10 May 2022
IBM pledges to push boundaries in quantum computer roadmap
IBM revised its quantum computing roadmap with a 4,000-qubit system by 2025 and unveiled its Modular Quantum Computing initiative to support multiprocessor systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2022
Explore liquid cooling for data centers
Discover the different classifications of liquid cooling -- such as direct-to-chip, liquid immersion or rear-door heat exchangers -- before adopting it in your data center. Continue Reading
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News
03 May 2022
Dell to ship all-NVMe version of VxRail for Project Monterey
Dell plans to ship an all-NVMe version of VxRail that will be the first hyper-converged system to work with VMware's Project Monterey, scheduled for release this summer. Continue Reading
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News
03 May 2022
IBM spruces up iSeries with cloud app dev tools
IBM's new version of the iSeries OS is tightly integrated with OpenShift and includes new tools to help iSeries developers modernize legacy apps for the cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2022
Arm processor
An Arm processor is one of a family of CPUs based on the RISC architecture for computer processors. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Apr 2022
Break down types of data center storage
Data centers should consider alternate varieties of storage for different uses. Explore hybrid storage arrays, virtual storage, cloud storage and on-premises architecture. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Apr 2022
power usage effectiveness (PUE)
Power usage effectiveness (PUE) is a metric used to determine the energy efficiency of a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Apr 2022
metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET)
The metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET, pronounced MAWS-feht) is the most common type of field-effect transistor (FET). Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2022
power distribution unit (PDU)
A power distribution unit (PDU) is a device for controlling electrical power in a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2022
solid-state drive (SSD) capacity
Solid-state drive (SSD) capacity is the maximum amount of data that can be stored on a solid-state drive. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2022
IT innovation
IT (information technology) innovation in an enterprise is about using technology in new ways, where the result is a more efficient organization and an improved alignment between technology initiatives and business goals. Continue Reading
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News
05 Apr 2022
New IBM Z mainframe blunts quantum cyber attacks
Looking to compete with AI-based supercomputer vendors, IBM unveiled a Z mainframe armed with new AI features and security that deflects attacks launched from quantum computers. Continue Reading
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News
31 Mar 2022
Intel acquires Granulate to boost cloud workload speeds
To improve performance of workloads spanning multiple clouds and on-premises environments, Intel acquired Granulate Cloud Solutions, specialists in autonomous optimization tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2022
Discover disaster recovery and backup for edge networks
Proper backup and DR at the edge requires an awareness of the specific challenges edge devices present, and appropriate plans and tooling to help ease management. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2022
CHIPS Act moves the needle on US chip manufacturing
Not only does the CHIPS Act funnel billions into U.S. semiconductor chip manufacturing, it reflects a major change in how U.S. lawmakers view industrial policy, experts say. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Mar 2022
Using digital twins simulation to reduce risks in industry
Whether it's fighting wildfires or working in a warehouse, people often encounter dangerous working conditions. Researchers are using digital twin simulation to counter those risks. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2022
Nvidia beefs up its line of AI supercomputers, chips
Nvidia rolls out a new GPU architecture, supercomputers and chips that in concert will aid developers in creating the hardware foundation for the next generation of AI applications and services. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Mar 2022
SMP (symmetric multiprocessing)
SMP (symmetric multiprocessing) is the processing of programs by multiple processors that share a common operating system and memory. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2022
Intel's aggressive processor roadmap has some bumps ahead
Intel is optimistic its processor roadmap can put the company back on top, but the company faces the challenging prospect of balancing short-term costs with long-term competitiveness. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Mar 2022
supercomputer
A supercomputer is a computer that performs at or near the highest operational rate for computers. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Mar 2022
What do GPUs do in your data center?
Though developed to handle complex graphics rendering calculations, GPUs now handle a variety of tasks in the data center. Learn what they can do for you. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Mar 2022
64-bit processor (64-bit computing)
A 64-bit processor refers to a microprocessor that can process data and instructions in chunks of 64 bits. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2022
multicore processor
A multicore processor is an integrated circuit that has two or more processors attached for enhanced performance and reduced power consumption. These processors also enable more efficient simultaneous processing of multiple tasks, such as with parallel processing and multithreading. Continue Reading
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News
02 Mar 2022
Kyndryl revenue slides, company lays out plans for growth
IBM spinoff Kyndryl reported revenue was down in 2021, but expects three cloud partnerships and a focus on growing markets to change that. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2022
hot/cold aisle
The hot and cold aisles in the data center are part of an energy-efficient layout for server racks and other computing equipment. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2022
IBM IMS (Information Management System)
IBM IMS (Information Management System) is a database and transaction management system that was first introduced by IBM in 1968. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Feb 2022
11 key considerations prior to a data center upgrade
When you upgrade your data center, know the 11 key steps you must take to ensure neat migrations, good availability, continued security and limited downtime. Continue Reading
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News
16 Feb 2022
Intel expands chip-making capacity with Tower acquisition
Intel continues its aggressive push in the processor market by purchasing Tower Semiconductor, which makes chips for a variety of consumer and industrial products. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2022
Nutanix streamlines its HCI, cloud portfolio for ease of use
Nutanix has slimmed down its portfolio by repackaging its HCI and cloud platforms to include support for VMs and containers in private data centers and public clouds. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2022
IBM Z as a service brings mainframes closer to hybrid clouds
Responding to demands to modernize mainframe environments, IBM delivered its Z as a service and a new software stack that brings mainframes and hybrid clouds closer together. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Feb 2022
How can data centers support a remote workplace?
Remote work presents a variety of challenges to businesses. Here's what an organization can do to provide adequate resources for its at-home workers and admins. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2022
RAIN (redundant/reliable array of inexpensive/independent nodes)
A reliable array of independent nodes (RAIN) is a heterogeneous cluster of compute and storage nodes connected in a fault-tolerant network topology that incorporates multiple interfaces and redundant hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jan 2022
water cooling
Water cooling, also called liquid cooling, is a method used to lower the temperature of computer processor units (CPUs), and sometimes graphics processor units (GPUs). Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2022
Nvidia Arm deal another step closer to -- death?
Negotiations of the long-awaited Nvidia acquisition of Arm Ltd. have come to a halt with rumors of Nvidia telling partners they can't come to agreement on a deal. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2022
IBM hybrid cloud strategy driving revenue growth
IBM revenue for its hybrid cloud business showed little indication of slowing down, with the company reporting sales of $6.2 billion for the fourth quarter and $20 billion for 2021. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jan 2022
Miami Dolphins add Dell VxRail to digital transformation project
Looking to enrich the experience of fans, the Miami Dolphins have embarked on an aggressive digital transformation project involving new Dell HCI and storage infrastructure systems. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2021
Nutanix CEO Ramaswami talks HCI, 'invisible' cloud strategy
Former VMware executive Rajiv Ramaswami remains embroiled in the VMware-Nutanix hybrid cloud war, but now he plays for the other team with an updated plan and vision moving forward. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2021
IBM, Samsung to deliver new energy-saving chip design
Looking to bolster its position in the next-generation chip competition, IBM unveiled a new design that allows chips to be stacked vertically, adding power and energy savings. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Dec 2021
Recent quantum computing advances point to brighter future
The past year saw a handful of breakthrough technologies from IBM and Honeywell, bringing the future promises of quantum computing closer to a present-day reality. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2021
What is edge computing? Everything you need to know
Edge computing is a distributed information technology (IT) architecture in which client data is processed at the periphery of the network, as close to the originating source as possible. Continue Reading
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News
07 Dec 2021
Cambridge Quantum delivers first quantum encryption keys
Cambridge Quantum, newly merged with Honeywell's Quantum Solutions division, has debuted the first as-a-service cryptographic key generator for quantum computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2021
How do CPU, GPU and DPU differ from one another?
Data centers use three varieties of processing units: CPU, GPU and DPU. Learn the unique use cases for each, and how to use them in conjunction to accelerate data center workloads. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2021
motherboard tattoo
A motherboard tattoo is a colloquial term once used to denote an ID code that is written in the basic input/output system (BIOS) of a computer to uniquely identify the computer. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Nov 2021
Compare Hadoop vs. Spark vs. Kafka for your big data strategy
Learn more about these three big data frameworks and what use case best suits each one. You might also examine options such as Apache Hive, Flink and Storm. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Nov 2021
OLTP (online transaction processing)
OLTP (online transaction processing) is a class of software programs capable of supporting transaction-oriented applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Nov 2021
single point of failure (SPOF)
A single point of failure (SPOF) is a potential risk posed by a flaw in the design, implementation or configuration of a circuit or system. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Nov 2021
U (measurement)
A U is a standard unit of measure for designating the height in computer enclosures and server rack cabinets. Continue Reading
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News
21 Oct 2021
IBM details Kyndryl spinoff, business reorg and earnings
IBM's third-quarter earnings report was a mixed bag, with overall cloud revenues continuing to rise, and server hardware showing a sharp downturn. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Oct 2021
Bust latency with monitoring practices and tools
Improve latency across your data center's infrastructure by exploring its causes, a handful of best practices and tools you can implement to improve speed and responsiveness. Continue Reading
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News
21 Sep 2021
Nutanix Cloud Platform, AOS 6 improve networking, security
Nutanix debuted a new version of its AOS operating system along with new networking features, looking to boost its chances in the increasingly crowded hybrid cloud market. Continue Reading
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News
08 Sep 2021
IBM's first Power10 server tailored for hybrid clouds
IBM has moved closer to achieving a frictionless hybrid cloud model with its first Power10 server. The new system comes loaded with a variety of security technologies. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Sep 2021
7 major server hardware components you should know
Even with software-based data center options, it's still important to know the physical components of a server. Check out these terms to refresh your memory. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Sep 2021
Learn the difference between SMP vs. MPP
Learn the differences between the main modes of multiprocessing: SMP, AMP and MPP. Each has a distinct use case that makes it suited for different data centers and organizations. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Aug 2021
5 considerations for proper mainframe decommissioning
As organizations decide to retire mainframe systems, IT pros should develop a plan that addresses application migration, program replatforming, data security and hardware removal. Continue Reading
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News
23 Aug 2021
IBM boosts AI speed, security on next-gen mainframe processor
Hoping to make the mainframe more relevant to users implementing AI, IBM plans to introduce next year a processor that runs AI applications faster and with better security. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2021
Learn the major types of server hardware and their pros and cons
Servers protect data, centralize resources and enable remote worker productivity, but buyers must understand which server types works best for their data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Aug 2021
UK banking giant doubles down on IBM z15 mainframes
Responding to users demands for dependable access to banking services, Nationwide Building Society continued its commitment to IBM's Z series of mainframes upgrading to the z15. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jul 2021
IBM z/OS V2.5 integrates mainframes with hybrid clouds, AI
Bringing mainframes deeper into the hybrid cloud mix, IBM delivered an updated version of z/OS that makes it easier for IT pros to modernize applications and improve security. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jul 2021
Purported Intel-GlobalFoundries deal targets chip shortage
Hoping to build its chip production to better compete with TSCM and Samsung, Intel is rumored to be making a bid to acquire GlobalFoundries for $30 billion, among other moves. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2021
DPU market heats up with tech from Nvidia, Intel
Nvidia will integrate its Bluefield-2 DPU with Palo Alto Network's virtual firewall to boost performance and offer better security to handle the onslaught of cloud applications. Continue Reading
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News
02 Jul 2021
Whitehurst out as IBM president amid executive changes
Top executives leading IBM have moved, including IBM president Jim Whitehurst, and the company has added a new face to its systems business, recruited from HPE. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2021
4 key ways to prevent server sprawl
Take steps to cut back on costly and hard-to-manage server sprawl: consolidate your hardware, virtualize your servers, consider software-defined infrastructure and stay organized. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2021
Top considerations for HPC infrastructure in the data center
Determine whether HPC is right for your organization by understanding the compute, software and facilities requirements and limitations for supporting HPC infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jun 2021
Electric plugs for each country
Discover the electrical plugs, outlets and voltages used in different countries around the world. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jun 2021
Pat Gelsinger reorganizes Intel, creates datacenter, AI group
Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger has reorganized business units and moved executive leaders to focus on AI, graphics and other emerging data center technologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jun 2021
Evaluate edge computing software for device management
Managing a variety of devices at the edge can create a complex challenge for organizations, but software-based edge management platforms can help. Continue Reading
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News
06 May 2021
IBM's 2 nanometer CPU roadmap heats up chip manufacturer race
IBM continues its push to be more competitive in the chip manufacturer competition, showing off its first 2 nanometer chip expected to boost performance of its Power and Z series mainframes by 40%. Continue Reading
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News
17 Mar 2021
IBM tools speed mainframe application modernization projects
IBM has released new versions of its application modernization tools designed to bring its Z series of mainframe applications in closer alignment with its development pipeline. Continue Reading
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News
23 Feb 2021
IBM leans on Red Hat to adapt Power servers for hybrid cloud
New Red Hat tools and integrated system offerings allow IBM Power users to run workloads across multiple cloud environments. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jan 2021
IBM revenues head south again as hardware, services sales dip
Reporting its sharpest decline in five years, IBM revenues for 2020 dove 5%. CEO Arvind Krishna highlights opportunities and vows to run IBM differently in 2021. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2020
Your guide to avoiding server rack setup issues
Not all data center servers are created equal. Before you attempt a server racking project, double-check size specifications and account for fastening hardware and cabling needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2020
Transform your infrastructure to support parallel processing
Quick, real-time data analysis is a boost to any organization's operations. With the right hardware and software, you can support parallelization in your data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Nov 2020
AMD, Nvidia chip acquisitions target Intel's dominance
AMD, Nvidia and Intel raised the competitive heat in the chip industry with all three making strategic acquisitions to run AI workloads. Continue Reading
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News
02 Nov 2020
Honeywell's quantum computer makes a quantum volume leap
Honeywell rolled out a quantum computer with a quantum volume of 128, accompanied by the company's first subscription program that assures users get the latest upgrades quickly. Continue Reading
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News
21 Oct 2020
IBM cloud revenues climb as hardware continues to decline
IBM cloud revenues continue to increase as hardware sales drop, sharpening the company's strategy to focus on hybrid cloud. Continue Reading
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News
08 Oct 2020
Dell EMC PowerEdge XE7100 seeks to corral unstructured data
Dell looks to snap server sales slump with two new PowerEdge XE servers. The dense models have flexible configurations of compute, storage and networking, and joint code development with Splunk. Continue Reading
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News
16 Sep 2020
IBM roadmap promises a 1,121-qubit quantum computer by 2023
IBM outlined plans to deliver a series of quantum computers over the next three years culminating with IBM Quantum Condor, a 1,121-qubit system capable of solving complex problems. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Aug 2020
Single-socket servers offer cost, utilization benefits to admins
Different server types bring advantages in processing speed, memory availability and overall cost. See what single- and dual-socket servers can add to your infrastructure. Continue Reading
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News
18 Aug 2020
IBM debuts Power10 processor, aimed at hybrid clouds
IBM's Power10 chip promises to make life easier for IT pros installing hybrid clouds -- but they will have to wait until late next year to see for themselves. Continue Reading
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News
13 Aug 2020
IBM Z mainframes revived by Red Hat, AI and security
It's not quite the glory days of the 1960s, but IBM mainframes are getting by with a little help from open source friends. IBM discusses the boost and plans for security and AI. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2020
Big Blue ties its IBM Z Series tighter to hybrid clouds
In its ongoing mission to keep mainframes relevant, IBM rolled out a raft of hardware and software offerings that move it closer to the heart of IT shops' hybrid cloud strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2020
4 disadvantages of hyper-converged infrastructure systems
Problems with scalability and cloud compatibility can create major issues for organizations that want to deploy hyper-converged infrastructure systems. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jul 2020
New IBM Power systems offer pay-as-you-go pricing
IBM rolled out a low-end Power system with pay-as-you-go pricing to make it easier for users to deploy hybrid clouds for mission-critical applications. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Jun 2020
Vendors investigate chiplets as CPU expansion option
As chipmakers expand the amount of processing power in CPUs, some are considering the use of chiplets. These modular silicon pieces offer a possible option for scalable designs. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2020
Tool helps mainframe developers create cloud-native apps
Reassuring mainframe developers of its commitment to the venerable platform, IBM will introduce a tool that helps them build cloud-native applications for z/OS. Continue Reading
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Answer
02 Jun 2020
How should I choose a new server hardware configuration?
It's important to consider current and future business needs when choosing a server to ensure you'll have adequate CPU, memory, storage and network resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jun 2020
How to prevent and recover from server failure
Hardware, software and facility issues can lead to server failure. With the right protocol and preventive maintenance, you can reduce failure amount and troubleshoot time. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 May 2020
Traditional vs. converged vs. hyper-converged infrastructure setups
HCI clusters, converged infrastructure and rack servers all offer benefits for a data center. Still, figuring out which is easier to set up requires evaluation and planning. Continue Reading
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News
26 May 2020
IBM layoffs target services, marketing employees
IBM layoffs under newly appointed CEO Arvind Krishna largely affect its Global Technology Services and marketing groups. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2020
Tools and tips to track server power consumption
Server power requirements differ for each organization, but it's still essential to monitor peak loads and track how much power your servers consume to avoid outages. Continue Reading
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News
21 Apr 2020
IBM's new CEO makes commitment to IT, reports cloud gains
IBM cloud revenues saw incremental first quarter growth, despite the March slump due to COVID-19, and the new CEO promised to pursue a more aggressive cloud and AI strategy. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2020
Lower-cost IBM z15 mainframes add security for multi-clouds
Two new low-end IBM z15 mainframes and security software aim to help users better prevent internal attacks, as well as monitor workloads across on-premises and multi-cloud environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Apr 2020
Improvements in CPU features help shape selection
CPUs have evolved to meet ever-increasing technology demands. We look at the way performance and power characteristics have shifted in recent years. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2020
Build up your knowledge of leaf-spine network technology
As organizations deal with challenges of single tree path networks, many admins are considering leaf-spine architectures. Learn the ways its topology helps latency and data flow. Continue Reading
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News
04 Mar 2020
Mainframe software market shrinks with BMC-Compuware deal
The BMC acquisition of Compuware leaves BMC as the last major independent mainframe software company. But its new portfolio should help users transition to modern world of DevOps. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Feb 2020
A look at software-defined networking upgrade guidelines
SDN brings the benefit of a mostly software-based update process. However, admins still must consider which updates are necessary and if a hardware refresh is required. Continue Reading
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News
19 Feb 2020
New Dell EMC PowerEdge servers are built for the rugged edge
New Dell Streaming Media Platform includes two small form factor PowerEdge servers and a Modular Data Center. Dell aims the products for use in harsh IT environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Feb 2020
A guide to GPU implementation and activation
Data center GPU usage goes beyond hardware. Admins must work with vendors and developers to have the right software architecture and code to benefit from GPUs. Continue Reading