So you have decided to buy and install your first dedicated server. Many small businesses setup a file and print server, while others setup a web server, or an email server. That’s OK, since setting up any server involves many of the same configuration steps.

Initially, the setup is just like setting up a personal PC: Unpack everything, compare the shipping list to the box contents, connect the keyboard, mouse, and network cable, and plug in the power. But first you must consider the location of the server. Best is a lower traffic location such as a dedicated server room or wiring closet. Don’t forget about physical security- if someone can just pick up your server and walk away then all the OS, network, and application security you setup will mean nothing.

A server environment needs to not only be safe, but should also be controlled for temp and humidity. You will need to make sure the heat from your server can be dispersed. Additionally, if your server is in a location you may not visit often, or there’s any risk from the environment, you should think about using a physical monitoring device. The APC Netbotz 420 or the AVtech Room Alert 11 E both track temp, humidity, motion, flooding, airflow, and more, and can issue alerts when they are needed.

Nowadays many servers have dual power supplies. It is best if you can plug each power supply into a different UPS and plug those UPSs into two separate circuits. This way only one power supply will go offline if you lose a circuit.

If your server’s operating system has been preinstalled thi