Server cabinets and open server racks ultimately server the same purpose. However their differences do define some noteworthy advantages and disadvantages, which can make choosing between the two difficult. Which best suits you will ultimately depend on the environment that you plan to put your cabinet or rack in as well as your plans for usage and even your aesthetic preference. Open racks offer the following advantages: cost, high accessibility, visibility, airflow. Cabinets on the other hand offer: Protection, aesthetics, sturdiness.
While it may seem like the advantages sported by the open rack outweigh those of the cabinet, this is not necessarily the case. If you’re server is in a location where security is imperative, you should definitely opt for the cabinet. However, if the environment is one that supports the many benefits of an open rack, it may be worth sacrificing the looks and security of a cabinet for the efficiency, cost effectiveness, and ease of use that comes with an open rack.