Chapter 2. Server Platforms for mySAP.comServer, OS, and Database Platforms

SAP software is designed to run on multiprocessor server technology with scalable operating systems and relational databases. In theory, SAP software is designed to be platform independent; the customer can choose the best platform to fit the IT operational needs. The IT investment is typically more in the administration, training, and tools for a particular operating system and database platform than in any one particular processor technology. In the mid-range, the servers, operating systems, and databases have become commodity items. The servers are essentially mass-market computer engines, easily replaceable with another platform. This is especially true for the SAP application servers. In the high-end, the scaling of the database server becomes one of the most important factors to consider. Replacing or upgrading the database server becomes more painful, with more downtime involved, thus the server, operating system, and database platform choice is critical here (for a few, regardless of cost).