how much does a server cost

How Much Does It Really Cost To Setup And Maintain Your Own FTP Server?

FTP servers are the most common way to share and manage files for organizations. They give I.T. pros control over systems, data and user access. This article is designed to help you understand a fundamental question for many IT professionals, how much does an FTP server costs to create and maintain.

How much an FTP server costs depends on several variables, including hardware, software, bandwidth, setup time and ongoing electricity, upgrades, support and security. Keep in mind that there are several ways to go about configuring an FTP server, below is the most common pricing with regards to how much an FTP server costs:

How Much Does An FTP Server Cost?

1. Hardware (,500)

Price ranges on processor speed and how much hard drive space you need. Here are the specs of a slimmed down FTP server:

  • Dual Xeon 1.83Ghz Processors
  • Windows Server Web Edition
  • 1 Terabyte of storage
  • Raid 5 (For hard drive redundancy)
  • 4 Gigs of Memory
  • 3 Year ProSupport

2. Software (00)

There are many FTP server software programs to choose from, and they impact how much an FTP server costs. They range in price based on product features and how many users can access the account. These will impact your server cost. There are many providers offering this type of product, but I have chosen three popular programs:

  • Serv-U (95-,995)
  • GlobalScape (prices range)
  • FileZilla – (FREE)

3. Bandwidth (Soft Cost)

Hosting an FTP server in-house will certainly eat into your bandwidth when users start uploading and downloading files. This can cause a dangerous ripple effect on other employees trying to perform important functions such as emailing, web browsing, video conferencing and in some cases, phone calls. This hidden server cost can hurt productivity and therefore your bottom line.

4. Setup Time (1 Day)

Everyone knows, time is money, and how much time you spend impacts how much your server costs. You may have to install some or more of these software and procedures listed:

  • Configure Windows
  • Purchase SSL (If security is a concern)
  • Configure Network
  • Configure FTP software
  • Configure Backups
  • IP addresses
  • Hostnames
  • Firewall Provisioning
  • Create user accounts
  • Create directories
  • Create file system permissions
  • FTP server permissions

5. Support (Ongoing)
Must have tech-savvy person on staff to do the following:

  • Manage
  • Backup
  • Troubleshoot problems
  • Apply patches to server
  • Upgrade
  • Monitor

How Much Does a Server Cost: Conclusion

So how much does an FTP server cost? It’s easy to say that you can spend at least ,000 upfront to create an FTP server that people can use, not to mention ongoing costs.

Before making the decision to build and maintain your own FTP server, learn more about SmartFile’s on-premise FTP appliance.

This is a turnkey hosted FTP solution that gives your company far more tools for better file management, more security, increased compliance and absolute control. You’ll be saving ,000 right away and SmartFile takes care of all the maintenance. Who knows, you might even make your IT person happy. Want more information? Get it here.

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SmartFile is a business file mangement platform that gives you more control, compliance and security.

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