Refurbished Servers: What Your Business Should Know

by Stephanie Faris on Saturday, August 26, 2017 10:30

It's a question information technology professionals are often asked when it comes to desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. Should end users take advantage of the cost savings that can come from purchasing refurbished equipment, or is it too risky? As the physical components that make up electronic devices have evolved, consumers have found that often they can get years of life out of them, saving money while also being able to keep their technology upgraded.

But does the same approach apply to the server room? To meet the requirements of their service agreements, businesses will often replace servers much more often than is absolutely necessary. If not for these agreements, a server might provide as much as a decade of useful service. Instead, companies like Google have realized the benefits of repairing old servers versus constantly swapping them for new ones.

For IT teams, purchasing refurbished servers can be a great way to get high-quality equipment without the cost. But if your team chooses to go this route, here are a few things you should know.

Same Warranties, Lower Price

When you buy a refurbished server from a reputable retailer, you have access to the same equipment at a fraction of the price of new hardware. But most importantly, you'll generally have the same warranty you'd have with brand new equipment. If any components should fail during the warranty period, you'll be able to have them replaced in the same manner you would new server equipment. Check your warranty carefully before completing your purchase to make sure you have the coverage you need.

Thorough Inspection

Prior to selling refurbished equipment, top-quality retailers generally check and test every component for structural integrity. Often this means refurbished equipment gets a more intensive inspection than new electronics. Make sure you question this inspection process when choosing an equipment provider. Ask what measures the company takes to ensure the servers are in great working condition before selling them. You may find that you're able to partner with a refurbished server retailer that consistently provides equipment for your business.

Limited Options

One negative to purchasing refurbished equipment is that you may not have the same choice of manufacturer, model, or configuration as you would if you were selecting from a wide range of new products. This may work best if you are open to servers from a variety of manufacturers, but if you prefer a specific brand, check directly with a reseller that specializes in that brand and let them know the type of equipment you need. If you are flexible on when the equipment comes in, you may be able to get on a waiting list to be notified whenever that server type is available.

Refurbished equipment is a great option for IT teams on a budget. It allows you to purchase the equipment you need while also saving money. Read reviews and ask for recommendations to make sure you get a provider who sells quality equipment and can help you fulfill all your purchasing needs.