{"id":25763,"date":"2023-02-23T06:52:01","date_gmt":"2023-02-23T06:52:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/serverlift.com\/?p=25763"},"modified":"2025-05-02T16:41:12","modified_gmt":"2025-05-02T16:41:12","slug":"server-rack-selection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/serverlift.com\/nn\/blog\/server-rack-selection\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Choose The Right Server Rack For Your Data Center"},"content":{"rendered":"

One of the most important aspects of operating a data center is determining how to store servers, power supplies, switches, routers, and other equipment in a way that allows for easy access and consistent cooling. Every data center is arranged differently, which means there are many different types of IT equipment racks designed to hold all of this equipment efficiently. Choosing the right rack for your data center, therefore, may be difficult if you don\u2019t know how to narrow down exactly what you need.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This guide should help you select the most sensible, practical, and efficient options for your use case. As you review each of the following sections, strike off any products on your list that won\u2019t meet your requirements. By the end, you should have only a handful of options left, making it easier to choose the best server rack for your facility.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rack Sizes<\/span><\/h2>\n

Most rack measurements are standardized to accommodate the most common equipment sizes. If you develop a plan for how you want to arrange each server and component within the rack, then you can measure the length, width, and height you\u2019ll need for everything to fit. You\u2019ll also need to measure how much space the rack will take up in your facility to ensure the footprint still allows workers to access all sides safely.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The calculations can be a bit tricky, even if you\u2019ve measured well. A \u201c<\/span>unit<\/span><\/a>\u201d in rack terms is 1.75 inches (44.45 mm), and a standard rack stands 42 units tall. Depth dimensions range from a shallow 31.50 inches (800 mm) to a deep 47.24 inches (1200 mm), with the average being 43.31 inches (1100 mm).<\/span><\/p>\n

Trends show that rack density increases every year in many data centers. If you\u2019re unsure about your future needs, choose larger server racks that will allow for growth.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rack Styles<\/span><\/h2>\n

Different types or styles of rack will have different features and some may be more or less suitable for various equipment mounting methods, but they shouldn\u2019t affect the basic functionality of the rack. The common features you could choose from include:<\/span><\/p>\n