HOW TO BUY

Server Shopping Made Easy

Server Sales Channels
Channel	Pros	Cons
Online	Best prices, broadest selection, easy to comparison shop	Limited help during the purchase process, limited customization; delivery delays
Telephone	Modest level of guidance; competitive pricing	Limited customization and delivery options
Retail	More purchase support; some customization available	Limited inventory, especially anything other than low-end devices
Direct Sales	Extensive factory customization and purchase guidance	Higher cost; limited post sales customization
Value added resellers	Most support and customization	Highes cost; only an option for large budgets

Buying vs. Leasing Servers
Purchase approach	Pros	Cons
Buy	Can customize all you want; cheaper than a lease	Depreciation accounting, high upfront cost; rapid obsolescence
Lease	Low upfront cost; tax advantages; no disposal worries	Higher cost, locked into a 3-year relationship