ServerCat Case Study – ABT Group
Relocation of Servers: ABT Office to Secure Data Centre
Overview: ABT Group required the relocation of their critical server infrastructure from their existing office premises to a new, secure data centre. The objective was to ensure minimal downtime and seamless transition without data loss or hardware damage. ServerCat was entrusted with this critical task.
1. Site Survey
Objective: To inspect the equipment and determine the optimal path for transportation to the loading dock:
Conducted a thorough inspection of all server equipment.
Identified potential obstacles and optimal paths for safe and efficient movement.
Coordinated with office management to ensure all access points were clear.
Outcome: A detailed plan was created to streamline the movement of equipment from the office to the loading dock, minimising risk and ensuring safety.
2. Equipment Inventory
Objective: To document all equipment accurately:
Created a comprehensive list of all servers, networking hardware, and peripheral devices.
Verified inventory with ABT’s IT staff to ensure accuracy.
Outcome: An accurate inventory ensured all equipment was accounted for and correctly relocated.
3. Remove, Wrap and Load Equipment
Objective: To safely dismantle and transport equipment to the new data centre:
Carefully powered down and disconnected all equipment.
Used anti-static wraps and cushioning to protect sensitive components.
Loaded equipment into secure, climate-controlled transport vehicles.
Outcome: Equipment was safely transported without damage, preserving integrity and functionality.
4. Unload, Unwrap and Rack Equipment
Objective: To set up equipment in the new data centre:
Carefully unloaded and unwrapped all equipment upon arrival.
Installed servers and networking hardware into designated racks following the pre-planned layout.
Ensured all equipment was properly secured in the new environment.
Outcome: Equipment was installed efficiently and securely in the new data centre.
5. Reconnect All Equipment
Objective: To restore all connections and ensure operational readiness:
Referenced the documented inventory to reconnect all equipment accurately.
Conducted preliminary power-on tests to check for immediate issues.
Outcome: All systems were reconnected and tested, ensuring they were operational.
6. Troubleshoot Connectivity
Objective: To ensure all systems were fully operational and resolve any connectivity issues:
Identified connectivity challenges during the post-relocation phase.
Collaborated with Data Centre Network Operations Staff, ABT Engineers, and ServerCat Engineers.
Executed a carefully constructed troubleshooting plan to resolve issues promptly.
Outcome: Connectivity challenges were observed, resulting in unexpected prolonged downtime. However, through collaborative efforts, resolutions were achieved efficiently, minimising service disruption to an absolute minimum.
ServerCat Case Study – Solbox
Introduction
Solbox, a dynamic and innovative company in the technology sector, sought a reliable and efficient solution for their server and network management needs. To this end, they partnered with ServerCat to host their private stack, which was expertly designed by ServerCat. This case study explores the journey of Solbox with ServerCat, highlighting the benefits and key features of the collaboration.
Challenges
Before partnering with ServerCat, Solbox faced several challenges:
High Costs: Maintaining an in-house server and network infrastructure was becoming increasingly expensive.
Limited Support: The available support was not timely or sufficient to address critical issues.
Disaster Recovery Concerns: There were significant worries about data loss and downtime in the event of a disaster.
Solution
ServerCat provided Solbox with a comprehensive solution that addressed all of their challenges:
Private Stack Hosting: ServerCat hosted Solbox’s private stack, ensuring a tailored and optimized infrastructure.
Network Administration: Complete network administration services were provided, including configuration, management, and troubleshooting.
Monitoring and Alerting: Continuous monitoring and alerting systems were put in place to detect and respond to any issues in real-time.
Support and Enquiries: ServerCat ensured that support was available whenever needed, providing peace of mind and prompt resolution of issues.
Benefits
Benefits realised by Solbox:
Cost-effective solution.
Reliable Support
Disaster Recovery Confidence
Expertise and Care
Conclusion
The partnership between Solbox and ServerCat has proven to be highly beneficial. ServerCat’s comprehensive infrastructure hosting, network administration, monitoring, and support services have enabled Solbox to streamline their operations, reduce costs, and focus on their core business objectives. The expertise and dedication of the ServerCat team have been instrumental in delivering reliable and efficient solutions, making them a trusted partner for Solbox.
Solbox’s experience with ServerCat stands as a testament to the value of choosing the right partner for critical IT infrastructure needs. The combination of cost-effectiveness, reliable support, robust disaster recovery, and expert care has positioned Solbox for continued success and growth.