Possible to use one computer as server and for normal use?

[percival504]

I am buying a new computer. I run OS X lion Server on my MBP, which I also use for everyday use. I was going to buy a Mac Mini Server + a MP, iMac or MBP. Considering the cost, I am wondering whether I can just use one computer, say a 6 or 12 core MP, and do things the way I am doing them now - in other words, is it bad practice to to use the computer that also runs OS X Lion Server?

 

[mobilehaathi]

I don't see why shouldn't do it, unless your server is always under heavy load without you using it normally.

 

[Macman45]

Possible? Certainly, bad practice....kind of depends on what you do with your Mac's. Normally, a server is a server, and that's it's job, but if you don't hammer it all the time you can probably save a few $$$ by going down your route.

 

[percival504]

Possible? Certainly, bad practice....kind of depends on what you do with your Mac's. Normally, a server is a server, and that's it's job, but if you don't hammer it all the time you can probably save a few $$$ by going down your route.

I am planning to go with a 3.33 6 Core with at least 24 GB RAM and an SSD boot drive (I have 2 x25-es right now) does that matter?

 

[Macman45]

That's plenty of grunt, but like I said, It depends on how hard you drive it.

 

[Omniver]

I run Server on my iMac mid-2011 (OpenDirectory, FileShares, Profile Manager) and serve to my MBP and iOS devices. The iMac/server is also the family computer so it's constantly in use. No issues - family has no idea it is a "server".

I did remove the shutdown/sleep options from the user menus just in case and modified the time machine settings to allow backup to an external drive even when nobody is logged in to ensure the shared disks are regularly backed up.

 

[foidulus]

I am buying a new computer. I run OS X lion Server on my MBP, which I also use for everyday use. I was going to buy a Mac Mini Server + a MP, iMac or MBP. Considering the cost, I am wondering whether I can just use one computer, say a 6 or 12 core MP, and do things the way I am doing them now - in other words, is it bad practice to to use the computer that also runs OS X Lion Server?

What services are running on it? Aside from the performance aspect you also have security to consider, getting your every day machine compromised can also put all your clients at risk as well.