devxlogo

Netfinity

Definition

Netfinity is a brand of x86 server computers that was maintained by IBM until 2001. The systems were designed to manage network functions such as serving large databases, transaction processing, and applications in a networked environment. The brand was replaced by the eServer series in the early 2000s.

Phonetic

The phonetics of the word “Netfinity” is: /nÉ›t’fɪnɪti/

Key Takeaways

Netfinity Key Takeaways

  1. Netfinity represents a line of network servers from IBM, specifically designed to cater to the demands of businesses in need of internet networking solutions. With a range of features, it offers a high, fault-tolerant level of operation.
  2. Netfinity servers are characterized by their robust reliability, scalability, and manageability. It also facilitates an advanced system management processor that helps maintain server stability & troubleshoot problems without the need to disrupt server functions.
  3. In addition to providing solid hardware, Netfinity servers also extend comprehensive software support, offering a myriad of choices for operating systems including Windows NT, SCO UnixWare, IBM’s OS/2 Warp Server, Novell NetWare, and many more, enabling a broad range of application serving.

Importance

Netfinity was a significant term in the technology industry as it referred to IBM’s line of Intel-based server hardware and software. Introduced in the late 1990s, Netfinity servers were designed to facilitate networking and data management in a variety of professional environments, including small businesses and large corporations. The systems were noted for their innovative features which-supported scalability, reliability, and performance. Furthermore, the Netfinity server line helped IBM establish a strong presence in the Intel-based server market and opened the avenue for the subsequent xSeries servers. As such, Netfinity represents a key development in the history of server technology and IBM’s evolution in the computing landscape.

Explanation

Netfinity was a brand of servers manufactured and marketed by IBM. These servers became well-known for their heightened dependability, scalability, and manageability, offering a wide range of server solutions for businesses of all sizes. This range of application is a testament to the underlying technology of Netfinity, which was designed to manage complex workflows and heavy data loads, supporting a multiplicity of enterprise applications.The servers were equipped with Intel processors, making them compatible with Windows NT, Linux and Novell’s NetWare. The purpose behind the development of Netfinity was to cater to the businesses aiming for top-notch network performance and efficiency. These feature-rich servers helped companies achieve their IT objectives by providing stable and consistent service with high availability and reliability. Netfinity allowed businesses to handle vast amounts of data, enabling the smooth running of applications, and facilitate easy expansion to accommodate data growth over time.

Examples

Netfinity refers to IBM’s line of Intel-based server hardware. Real-world examples related to Netfinity could include:1. IBM Netfinity 5500: This was an enterprise server designed by IBM providing powerful performance for critical network and business applications. It featured a scalable architecture, fault-tolerant design, and advanced system management capabilities.2. IBM Netfinity 7000 M10: This server was beneficial for businesses requiring large databases, enterprise resource planning, and customer relationship management applications. This specific model offered high storage capacity, improved data protection, and the ability to process at high speed.3. Netfinity Manager: Not a hardware example, but this software provided by IBM used with Netfinity servers to monitor and manage critical system components, helping businesses detect and resolve problems quickly so they can minimize system downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Q: What is Netfinity?A: Netfinity was a brand of x86-based servers from IBM. It was designed to cater to business computing and internet needs. The brand was phased out in 2000 and replaced by the eServer brand.Q: Who made Netfinity?A: Netfinity was developed and produced by IBM, an American multinational technology and consulting company.Q: When was Netfinity produced?A: The Netfinity brand was introduced in the 1990s and continued until the year 2000, when it was replaced by IBM’s eServer product line.Q: What was the purpose of Netfinity?A: Netfinity servers were purpose-built to deliver business solutions and high-performing experience of internet services to clients in business and enterprise settings.Q: What replaced the Netfinity servers?A: In 2000, IBM transitioned its Netfinity line over to the eServer product line, which then formed the basis for IBM’s current server offerings.Q: What kind of technology was used in Netfinity?A: Netfinity utilized the x86 server architecture meaning it was based on Intel’s x86 processor architecture.Q: Was Netfinity software or hardware?A: Netfinity referred to a line of IBM hardware servers. Q: What were the specifications and features of Netfinity servers?A: Netfinity servers typically had features such as hot swappable drives, support for RAID configurations, and redundant power supplies. However, the exact specifications varied depending on the specific model. Q: How does Netfinity compare to other servers?A: When they were in production, Netfinity servers were known for their reliability and robustness. They were tailored to handle in business computing and internet services, offering solutions that were otherwise complex to manage. However, since the line has been out of production for over two decades, it would be seen as outdated compared to current server technology.

Related Tech Terms

  • IBM Servers
  • X-Architecture
  • Rack-Optimized Server Technology
  • Network Operating Systems
  • Server Consolidation

Sources for More Information

devxblackblue

About The Authors

The DevX Technology Glossary is reviewed by technology experts and writers from our community. Terms and definitions continue to go under updates to stay relevant and up-to-date. These experts help us maintain the almost 10,000+ technology terms on DevX. Our reviewers have a strong technical background in software development, engineering, and startup businesses. They are experts with real-world experience working in the tech industry and academia.

See our full expert review panel.

These experts include:

devxblackblue

About Our Editorial Process

At DevX, we’re dedicated to tech entrepreneurship. Our team closely follows industry shifts, new products, AI breakthroughs, technology trends, and funding announcements. Articles undergo thorough editing to ensure accuracy and clarity, reflecting DevX’s style and supporting entrepreneurs in the tech sphere.

See our full editorial policy.

More Technology Terms

Technology Glossary

Table of Contents