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Server Consolidation: Why Less is More: Page 4 of 14

Adjustment 4: Guarding the castle

Trade in that buggy security system with wires running around 78 windows and doors for one large doorman named Spike.

Security is one of those benefits that is hard to quantify. If your organization has servers scattered across multiple locations, the chances increase that you'll be compromised by an attack on your systems or social engineering. Branch offices that have little contact with IT are often less than vigilant. Even within your main locations, IT may not strictly enforce its security procedures on every department-level server. Having fewer people responsible for knowing and following a security policy can't help but result in stronger enforcement (if you have problems in this area see "Got Discipline?").

Even physical security can be problematic in geographically diverse environments. Security in the headquarters may be top-notch, but at a small regional office it may be nothing more than glass and a locked door. All these factors point toward the strong likelihood of increased security benefits via a consolidated server environment.

Adjustment No. 5: Being cost-conscious