Hi,

I would like to run my own server, and I'm thinking of buying a dedicated machine to run it on. I checked out the dell website for a cheap machine to run it on (I don't need high performance - just a personal file server running a few hard drives, and a web/mail server). I noticed that they have some cheap models in their server line that are as cheap as a desktop. Compare:

http://www.dell.com/content/topics/s...-deals-servers

and

http://www.dell.com/content/topics/t...deals-desktops

The main difference I see between the desktops and the servers is the use of the Core or Xeon processor, and also, the servers tend to have lower RAM.

My question is, if I am looking for value, should I opt for a low end desktop or a low end server to run a personal server? Also, what advantage does the Xeon processors and Dell server line have over the desktop models that make it better for running a server?

Thanks.

Xeons are slightly more powerful and a lot more expensive than equivalents sold for desktops and workstations. They could thus be seen as Market Segmentation by Intel -- creating a slightly different product to increase sales income. If a Core processor has enough power for your needs there is little or no advantage in shelling out for a Xeon.

Regards "should I opt for a low end desktop or a low end server" the choice is not so easy. It is likely that Dell have used lower quality components in low end models to compete on price in a very competitive and price-sensitive market. This is likely to result in less stable and less long-lived computers. A better choice might be a mid- or high-end desktop.