What is a server rack?

Racks are the backbone of a modern IT infrastructure, allowing the efficient use of available space and ensuring your equipment can run without risk of overheating. A server rack is an essential element in modern IT infrastructures. Consisting of metal shelving, it allows companies to organise hardware components such as servers, network and storage devices into a central and compact arrangement. Our portfolio of racks are available in various sizes and configurations—including the number of network units and height units—allowing flexible setups, ease of access and the optimum positioning of IT devices. The server housings can be equipped with shelves, wall-mounted enclosures and wall cabinets so you can position your IT equipment where you need it depending on the required depth and the number of height units. And the ability to mount racks on the wall saves additional space. Our online shop is packed with industry-standard 482.6 mm (19") server racks making it easy to install standardised components.

The benefits of server racks.

Server racks offer the following benefits when it comes to managing your IT infrastructure:

Space optimisation: By organising your hardware vertically, racks maximise floor space and provide clear and easy access to your IT components, saving space and optimising system organisation.
Advanced security: Many of the server racks available in the Bechtle shop come with lockable doors and robust housings to protect your valuable equipment from damage, unauthorised access and theft.
Enhanced cooling: Integrated cooling and heat extraction systems keep your devices cool even when they are working hard to minimise the risk of overheating and downtime. This not only extends their life and boosts performance, but gives you a powerful system you can always rely on.
Simple maintenance and service: Organising your hardware in server racks considerably simplifies maintenance and service. A clear structure and ease of access allows you to get at the individual components to accelerate troubleshooting and updates and reduce issues.
Scalability and flexibility: Server racks can be flexibly configured and adapted to the ever-changing demands on your IT infrastructure. Easily add new hardware components and upgrade what’s already there without disrupting operations or restructuring your setup so your hardware can scale easily along with your growing company.

Where server racks come into their own.

Server racks are extremely flexible and are an ideal solution for many sectors and scenarios:

Data centres: With a rack, you can organise your server and network devices to optimise cooling efficiency. They are a space-saving solution that provides a clear overview of a large quantity of IT equipment in data centres to facilitate management, lower TCO and optimise performance.
Office environments: In office environments, network cabinets keep your IT clean and tidy and allow easy access and maintenance. They are a practical solution for the central storage of servers, switches and other IT devices, which boosts efficiency and optimises workflows.
Industrial applications: In tough industrial environments, racks provide protection and functionality making them perfect for use in factories, workshops and other industrial settings where IT equipment needs to be securely stored all while supporting operations in challenging environments.
Educational institutions: Server racks provide accessible IT resources in teaching and research environments. They can be easily adapted and scaled to meet the evolving requirements of schools, universities and other educational institutions and are a reliable solution for centrally managing IT equipment.

Server rack technologies.

In modern companies, an efficient IT infrastructure is indispensable for smooth business operations. Our server racks are innovative solutions that deliver optimum performance, durability and flexibility to meet dynamic requirements. Below are just a handful of the outstanding features modern racks offer to make your IT infrastructure more powerful and reliable.

Integrated cooling solutions: Modern racks come with advanced cooling systems to ensure efficient and continual heat dissipation. When your devices are able to work within their optimum operating temperature range, you not only lower the risk of damage caused by overheating, but also enhance the performance and extend the life of your hardware.
Modular configurations: Network cabinets come with adjustable shelving and accessories that allow you to customise your hardware as you wish. Add a new device or reorganise your existing hardware without impacting system integrity.
Cable management: Innovative cable management solutions alleviate device cabling and maintenance. By keeping your cables tidy, you not only lower the risk of faults and downtimes, but also improve air circulation and allow efficient troubleshooting and maintenance which ultimately contributes to the long-term reliability of your IT infrastructure.

Choosing the best server rack.

Before you invest in a rack server, there are several factors to consider to make sure your purchase will perfectly support your business and IT infrastructure needs.

Size and capacity: The right sizing is essential for making sure your rack offers plenty of space for your hardware and fits in your room. Racks are available in a range of heights and widths to suit a host of needs, so be sure to consider the equipment you want to accommodate as well as the available space in your room.

Material quality: For ruggedness and durability, you need to look into the quality of the materials used in construction. Invest in racks built of high-quality materials such as steel to maximise protection and ensure long-term reliability. Robust designs also provide better stability and resistance to external influences.

Accessory compatibility: Make sure that the rack you choose is compatible with the accessories you need to allow seamless integration and efficient operations. This may include shelves, cable management systems, cooling units or other equipment you require. A wide-range of accessories give you the flexibility to adapt your racks to your business needs and also optimally supports your IT infrastructure.

Expand your IT infrastructure with Bechtle.

Discover high-quality server racks from manufacturers including APC by Schneider Electric, Lehmann, Rittal and many more to boost the efficient organisation and management of your IT systems. Our experienced product managers are happy to advise so you find the perfect configuration for your specific needs and room conditions. Benefit from our consulting services to configure a secure, efficient and future-proof IT infrastructure.