![using a mac mini as a server using a mac mini as a server](https://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/images2000x2000/apple_z0nq_md3894_mac_mini_desktop_computer_908985.jpg)
But 4 years later, only 3 disks out of the 24 in the 12 Mini’s installed failed. (There are some people I know whom will tell you a very colourful story of this redundant setup failing for them). That gave us a very limited level of redundancy per Mini per site, with the JSS having failovers set if one sites server was down. “Redundancy? What redundancy?” I see people exclaim, well when we put the 1st set of Mini Servers in around 2011 they shipped with 2 x SATA disks that we setup in a RAID Mirror (read: RAID1).
![using a mac mini as a server using a mac mini as a server](https://follow-me.nu/files/2020-04/jaf-follow-me-13mrt20-hr-23.png)
There are also a number of services offered via OSX Server that make it perfect for Casper Distribution Points & “On Site Replicas”. OSX Server: Some people will see this as a distinct disadvantage, but I myself have managed OSX Server since 10.3 & am somewhat comfortable with it.Portability: Ok so this is an odd one when looking at a server, but the Mini’s diminutive form definitely helps in multi-office environments as shipping a Mini between sites is inexpensive & at some times can be transported as hand luggage.Storage: Even if the above is not a factor, the cost of the storage which can get pricey if costing 1TB of RAID10 3PAR or Left Hand Node.The cost for a Mini including AppleCare & a rack kit can be cheaper than the cost of some annual OS licenses cost Cost: Depending on your infrastructure, the Mini can be quite cheap.There are a few reasons we chose & subsequently stuck with Mac Mini’s