UPGRADE SERVERS THAT DO NOT PROVIDE IMPORTANT FEATURES
Each new server model introduces support for the latest features, such as
new memory types, processors with new extensions, more aggressive power
throttling or conservation features, or advanced thermal management such
as liquid cooling. TechTarget’s 2012 Data Center Decisions survey reported
that 36% of IT professionals replace older servers to improve the data center’s
energy efficiency. As another example, it would be almost impossible to achieve
worthwhile levels of virtualization on systems with processors that did not
include Intel VT or AMD V extensions. New server acquisitions are often required
when new data center initiatives -- such as consolidation projects -- are
initiated.