The quad-core Xeon-based Apple Xserve is a superbly modern 1U server with powerful options for storage and remote access. As with any server, deployments should be carefully planned--the embedded LOM may necessitate an additional Ethernet card under some circumstances, and anyone upgrading from a PowerPC-based model should study their power and cooling infrastructure before upgrading.

Pros: Powerful, compact 1U server; robust hardware RAID allows up to 2TB of protected internal storage.

Cons: Expensive hardware RAID; lights-out controller ships unconfigured; embedded controller requires convoluted deployment for secure remote access; more expensive to power and cool than G5 or G4 models.

Basics

Reviewed Price: $2999