So, you’ve decided to colocate your server — great choice.
Colocation gives you full control over your hardware while benefiting from enterprise-grade uptime, bandwidth, and security.

But before your server arrives at PLiKhost’s data center, there are a few important things to prepare to ensure a smooth setup and operation.

Here’s a complete checklist of what to do before shipping your server.

✅ 1. Choose the Right Hardware

Your server must physically fit into the rack space provided.

• 🔹 Standard size: 1U, 2U, or 4U rackmount server (tower servers may not be accepted)

• 🔹 Use rack rails or mounting kits (optional but helpful)

• 🔹 Confirm power compatibility (typically 220V, C13 or C19 power plugs)

Also, make sure:

• All components are tested and working

• Fans and cooling systems are clean and functional

• Disk drives are securely mounted

💡 Avoid last-minute surprises — test everything before shipping.

🔌 2. Label and Document Your Equipment

To help technicians identify your hardware and cables during setup or troubleshooting, label clearly:

• Server hostname or customer name

• Cable labels (e.g. power, network)

• Any add-on components like storage units or PDU

Also, prepare a simple document or PDF with:

• Server specs (CPU, RAM, disks)

• Internal IP addresses or network plans

• Login credentials (admin/SSH), if temporary access is needed by the provider

💻 3. Configure the Server for Remote Access

Once colocated, you likely won’t have physical access. So make sure remote access is ready:

• Enable SSH and allow specific IPs

• Set up out-of-band management if available (iDRAC, IPMI, iLO, etc.)

• Consider installing a VPN server or remote desktop tools (RDP, VNC) if needed

• Configure a firewall to block unauthorized access

🔐 Security first — don’t leave default credentials active.

🌐 4. Prepare the Network Settings

PLiKhost will assign you:

• One or more public IP addresses

• Gateway and DNS settings

Before shipping:

• Assign a static IP on your server (you can reconfigure later if needed)

• Disable DHCP on production interfaces

• Make sure your system boots without GUI or local intervention

Bonus: install tools like nload, htop, or netstat to monitor performance remotely.

☁️ 5. Back Up Your Data

Before shipping:

• Back up your entire system or critical files

• Use external drives or cloud storage

• Ensure that the server can recover if damaged or delayed

📦 Accidents can happen — always ship with a backup strategy in place.

🔋 6. Include Only the Essentials

Only send what’s necessary:

• Main server unit

• Rails or brackets (if requested)

• Power and network cables (optional — PLiKhost usually provides them)

Leave out:

• Monitors, keyboards, unnecessary peripherals

• External storage not meant for rackmount

🎯 The goal is a clean, rack-ready install.

📄 7. Inform PLiKhost Before Shipping

Let us know in advance:

• What is arriving (server model, size, number of units)

• Expected delivery time

• Rack and power requirements

• Preferred setup instructions or remote access methods

Our team will make sure everything is ready when your gear arrives.

Final Thoughts

Colocation is all about control, performance, and reliability — and good preparation ensures you get all three from day one.

By preparing your server properly, you make the handoff to PLiKhost’s data center smooth, professional, and efficient.

🟢 Need Help Preparing for Colocation? Contact PLiKhost
We’re here to assist with shipping, setup, remote access, and more.