The servers are the backbone of an IT infrastructure and are responsible for storing data and streamlining communication. Two tech industry giants dominate the server market, Dell & HP with their Dell PowerEdge vs HP Proliant server. Both server lineups offer a strong reputation and advanced features which play a critical role in overall business operations. This blog will explore the working, performance, reliability, power consumption, and more between the PowerEdge vs. ProLiant servers.
Difference between HP ProLiant and Dell PowerEdge
The HP ProLiant and Dell PowerEdge have been in the market for a long time but businesses still get confused between the two server systems. Following are the major differences between the two prominent names of the server industry. Let’s see which one is better for you.
HP ProLiant vs. Dell PowerEdge: Performance
HP ProLiant and Dell PowerEdge utilize the best AMD EPYC or Intel Xeon processors for Server CPUs. PowerEdge vs. proliant speed servers are known for their energy efficiency and ability to handle demanding applications. Both the server lineups offer low-end, mid-end, and high-end server CPUs.
Each category has the capacity to fulfill the workload according to your requirements. Therefore, make sure you analyze your business requirements before opting for a server. However, The PowerEdge series often offers a slight edge in multi-core performance due to its advanced air or liquid cooling systems.
HP ProLiant vs Dell PowerEdge: Memory Capacity
HP ProLiant servers offer advanced memory configuration with support for DDR4 or DDR5 RAM. This memory architecture is designed to support intensive applications like server virtualization, handling databases, and large-scale operation analysis. Dell PowerEdge utilized a similar memory configuration with a high-capacity memory option with the latest data transfer rates.
Dell often includes advanced memory technology like persistent memory (NVDIMM) which provides faster data access and improved performance in heavy workloads. Overall, Entry-level servers can handle 32 to 128 GB, Medium Level can support up to 512 GB while high-end can scale up to terabytes.
HP ProLiant vs Dell PowerEdge: Management
When it comes to management, both HP and Dell offer easy-to-use advanced tools with different strengths. HP ProLiant features Integrated Lights-Out(iLO), which is a remote management tool providing flexible control over the server. This includes diagnostics, monitoring, and firmware updates. Moreover, HP Proliant provides a unified view of all server operations using HP OneView.
iDRAC is a powerful tool embedded in Dell PowerEdge servers that provides remote management capabilities. Dell PowerEdge utilizes the Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC), for automation and cloud-based management. Dell’s OpenManage suite offers extensive tools for monitoring, updating, and optimizing server performance, with a particular focus on automation and ease of use.
HP ProLiant vs Dell PowerEdge: Reliability
HP ProLiant and Dell PowerEdge servers, both are well-designed for long-term reliability. HP ProLiant servers are often considered better for their consistent uptime and stable performance in heavy workload environments. Features like HP’s Advanced ECC memory and predictive failure analysis reduce downtime and prevent potential issues before they escalate.
On the other hand, Dell PowerEdge servers also offer high reliability, with a focus on redundancy and fault tolerance. Dell incorporates features like hot-swappable components and dual power supplies to ensure that the server remains operational even in the event of hardware failures.
HP ProLiant vs Dell PowerEdge: Scalability
HP Proliant provides a flexible configuration allowing businesses to scale up their processing power, system memory, and storage. HP’s modular design and integration with tools like HPE Synergy and OneView allow easier management and expansion of infrastructure.
Dell’s PowerEdge series includes many models supporting extensive customization and expansion options. It has features like multi-vector cooling and advanced automation via Dell’s OpenManage suite. PowerEdge servers are well-suited for environments that require rapid and substantial scaling.
HP ProLiant vs Dell PowerEdge: Security Features
In terms of ProLiant vs. PowerEdge, HP is equipped with HPE’s Silicon Root of Trust technology, which is embedded into the hardware to keep firmware free from tampering. This feature provides a secure boot process and firmware validation, which are crucial for preventing unauthorized access. On the other hand, Dell PowerEdge servers provide end-to-end encryption through cyber-resilient architecture.
It has features like an iDRAC9 controller with system lockdown and secure boot preventing any unauthorized changes and malicious attacks. In case of an attack, Dell PowerEdge also offers automated BIOS recovery which restores the system to the last known good state.
HP ProLiant vs Dell PowerEdge: Cost
HP ProLiant servers are often praised for their energy efficiency and lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over time. Features like Dynamic Power Capping and advanced power management help reduce operational costs, making them a cost-effective choice for businesses. HP has a lower upfront cost than the Dell server Whereas, Dell PowerEdge has a higher upfront cost but the maintenance cost is more affordable and flexible which ensures better cost-effectiveness.
Dell PowerEdge vs. HP ProLiant server price for Entry-level starts from $1000 to $5000. Whereas, high-end can go up to $50000 depending on your requirements and needs.
In PowerEdge vs. proliant cost, Dell servers are a good option for Large enterprises whereas, HP servers are well-suited for SMBs (Small and Medium Businesses).
Dell PowerEdge vs. HP ProLiant: Power Consumption
In the race of Dell Poweredge vs. ProLiant, HP servers are often recognized for their energy-efficient design. HP has invested heavily in power management features, which allow for precise control over power usage, reducing unnecessary energy consumption. However, enterprises can experience a slight drop in performance when in energy efficiency mode.
Dell PowerEdge servers also emphasize energy efficiency but with a focus on maintaining performance under varying workloads. It offers power-efficient power supplies and automated power adjustment based on real-time workload demands. Dell PowerEdge is designed for large-scale enterprises that want top performance from servers and energy consumption is not their main concern.
Dell PowerEdge vs. HP ProLiant: Raid Cards
Software or Hardware RAID brings together multiple physical drives into a single array for better performance. Dell servers use their series known as PowerEdge Raid Controller especially built for powerEdge servers. It supports the different levels of Raid – RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, RAID 50, and RAID 60.
In contrast, HP ProLiant servers use HPE Smart Array Controllers, such as the P408i-a, P816i-a, and E208i-a. These controllers support multiple RAID levels (RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60) and are designed for flexibility and ease of use. Both servers utilize SATA or SAS SSDs among other storage devices
HPE ProLiant vs. Dell PowerEdge: Pros and Cons
Below are the pros and cons of HP ProLiant vs. Dell PowerEdge.
| Pros | Cons | |
| HP ProLiant | Balanced performance | Lacks edge in multi-core task |
| High-capacity memory configuration | Less cost-effective | |
| Modular design, ideal for a hybrid environment | May require more proactive maintenance | |
| Dell PowerEdge | Superior multi-core performance | Higher power consumption |
| Persistent memory technology | The higher initial cost for scalability | |
| Extensive customization for better large-scale scalability | higher initial costs for scalability |
Dell PowerEdge vs. HP ProLiant: Operating Systems
The Dell PowerEdge & HP ProLiant server supports multiple operating systems include
- BIOS
- Ubuntu
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux
- VMWare ESXi
- Windows Server
- Citrix XenServer
- SUSE Linux ES
Dell PowerEdge vs. HP ProLiant: Customer Support
Both Dell and HP have a strong network of customer support globally. Whether you opt for Dell PowerEdge or HP ProLiant, you won’t be disappointed with the after-sales support.
PowerEdge vs. ProLiant: Which one Should you Choose
Dell PowerEdge servers offer extensive scalability, and early adoption of emerging technologies, making them an ideal option for businesses with significant growth. HP ProLiant servers excel in energy efficiency, modular design, and robust security features. This makes them a good option for businesses focused on long-term reliability, cost-effectiveness, and seamless integration with a hybrid IT environment.
Computing Worlds has a range of new and used HP and Dell servers that you can buy for your business.
Dell PowerEdge
HP ProLiant
You can also request a bulk quote online for the top Dell PowerEdge or HP ProLiant servers.
FAQs
Is investing in a CTO (Configure To Order) a better Option?
Whether you invest in CTO or BTO, your regular tasks will be executed perfectly. However, if you have any specific requirement then buy a server on customization.
Is iLO the same as iDRAC?
No, The iLO supports CLP, the DMFT Command Line interface. Whereas, the iDRAC supports a skeleton command-line interface. The iLO is much easier to use.
Do all Dell servers have iDRAC?
Yes, all the Dell PowerEdge servers have iDRAC installed from the manufacturer.
Finishing up the debate between Dell PowerEdge vs. HP Proliant and other types of servers. Both brands offer amazing specifications to their customers. However, if you are investing in a PC and server ensure you pair it with at least the best DDR4 memory and GDDR6 or GDDR6X graphics cards. You can also install components with DRAM or NAND chips to streamline the workflow.
Stay connected with the Computing Worlds blog for more information about servers.
