Decommissioning servers and removing components from your IT system may be scary, mainly when doing so incorrectly exposes your system to cyberattacks. But with the correct Managed IT Service Provider (MSP) and knowledge of the three truths we’ll cover in this post, server decommissioning may be a more straightforward procedure.
Check out our advice on how to master the process after you have a firm understanding of why you need to decommission.
What Is Server Decommissioning?
Decommissioning a server involves removing it from your IT network if it is broken or obsolete. Decommissioning often occurs when a business decides to shut down or wants to replace its equipment permanently. Unfortunately, decommissioning a server involves more than merely removing the hardware and turning off the electricity. You risk harming your network or losing crucial information if you decommission incorrectly.
Your network’s security is compromised by servers that are improperly disconnected
To avoid lingering security concerns, you must ensure all server traces are eliminated from your system before decommissioning it. If you don’t, your network security may be compromised, giving hackers access to your system. In addition, ensuring there are no weak links in your network can help you secure yourself if you are the owner of a technology-dependent company.
When decommissioning, check your firewalls, access control lists (ACLs), and subnets. If you know how you can decommission a server on your own, it is always advised to seek skilled professional assistance.
Decommissioning a Server Can Take Three Weeks or More
Decommissioning your server might take two to three weeks, even for most external networks. A more extended schedule is usually preferable, particularly if switching to a new server. Due to the present scarcity of computer parts, buying a new server might take several months if you’re upgrading to new equipment.
If you are working with an MSP, you won’t have to stress too much about the technical aspects of decommissioning the server. But it’s a good idea to know how the procedure will work. Your MSP will first lay up a timeline with key checkpoints in the process. Then, make a backup of any critical information, including licensing information. Next, the information will be deleted from the current server, which will be pulled off the network and disconnected when it has been confirmed that everything has been backed up.
Planning your server decommissioning when business is slower around your company is brilliant. For instance, if you own accounting business, avoid retiring servers around tax time. Instead, consider your timeline and the delivery timeframes of the equipment before scheduling your decommissioning.
Decommissioning a Server Is a Step in the It Network Lifecycle
Decommissioning a server is often necessary for an equipment update. Unfortunately, hardware has a finite lifespan and technology is constantly evolving. Therefore, when you see evidence that your hardware is becoming old, you should consider replacing it or decommissioning it to protect the productivity and security of your company.
You may maintain your servers and attempt to extend their lifespan beyond the typical period of more than five to eight years with the help of an MSP. However, decommissioning a server instead of upgrading it makes more sense and may be more cost-effective if your firm has outdated equipment.
When to Employ an MSP?
Consider utilizing an MSP for your server decommissioning if your company doesn’t have a dedicated IT crew and doesn’t have the funds to recruit one. To avoid expensive errors and disrupted business continuity, the process depends on having someone engaged with an in-depth understanding of how to maintain an IT infrastructure.
You may save money by using an MSP rather than incurring the initial costs of building your own internal IT infrastructure. In addition, MSPs may often discover methods to reduce the cost of other services and software you use in your company. Eventually, if you’ve ever been the victim of a cyberattack, you know how important it is to have help from an MSP.
Secure IT – The Right MSP for the Job
Don’t decommission your servers on your own if you need to update them. Secure IT is a very qualified MSP and can provide all the assistance you want for secure and effective decommissioning. To organize a free informative call, contact us right now.
