The HPE server naming convention simplifies choosing the right server for your business. By breaking down names by form factor, model, and generation.
Decoding HPE Server Names
HPE ProLiant servers are a cornerstone of enterprise IT, known for their performance, reliability, and flexibility. However, names like DL380 Gen10, BL460 Gen9, and ML350 Gen10 can be confusing at first. Understanding the HPE server naming convention makes it much easier to choose the right server for your needs.
This guide explains how HPE names its servers, breaking them down by form factor, naming structure, and generation.
HPE ProLiant Server Naming Structure
HPE uses a clear system of letters, numbers, and generation labels to name its servers. Here’s how it works:
Form Factor (Letters)
The letters at the beginning of the server name indicate its type:
- BL: Blade servers, are ideal for high-density environments where space efficiency matters.
- DL: Rack servers, designed for scalable setups in data centers.
- ML: Tower servers, perfect for small businesses or standalone systems.
Example: In DL380 Gen10, "DL" means it’s a rack-mounted server.
Model Number (Three-Digit Code)
The numbers following the form factor provide more details about the server:
- First digit: Indicates the series or class of the server.
- 100 series: Entry-level servers for smaller workloads.
- 300 series: Mid-range servers that balance performance and scalability.
- 500 series and above: High-performance servers built for demanding workloads or mission-critical applications.
- Second digit: Indicates key features like memory capacity, processing power, or storage options.
- Third digit: Occasionally used for customizations or specialized designs.
Example: The 380 in DL380 Gen10 shows it’s part of the DL300 mid-range series, offering excellent performance and scalability for tasks like virtualization and database management.
Generation
The generation label (e.g., Gen11, Gen10) indicates when the server was released. Each generation brings upgrades in:
- Performance: Faster processors and improved memory capacity.
- Security: Features like Silicon Root of Trust for enhanced protection.
- Energy Efficiency: Optimized cooling and reduced power consumption.
Blade Servers
Compact and efficient, blade servers are perfect for high-density setups like cloud hosting and virtualization.
Rack Servers
Rack-mounted servers are highly flexible and ideal for data centers that require scalable multi-server configurations.
Tower Servers
Tower servers are simple to deploy, making them a great fit for small businesses or standalone setups.
The table below provides an overview of HPE Blade, Rack, and Tower servers, making it easy to identify the generation of each server.
| Generation | 11th Gen | 10th/10 Plus Gen | 9th Gen | 8th Gen | 7th Gen |
| Blade Models | BL660c | BL460c BL660c |
BL460c BL660c |
BL460c BL660c |
BL460c BL490c BL620c |
| Rack Models | DL320 DL360 DL380 |
DL20 DL360 DL380 DL560 DL580 |
DL20 DL60 DL80 DL120 DL160 |
DL320e DL360e DL360p DL380e DL380p |
DL160 DL180 DL360 DL380 DL580 |
| Tower Models | ML110 ML350 |
ML30 ML110 ML350 |
ML10 ML30 ML110 ML150 ML350 |
ML310e ML350e ML350p |
ML110 ML150 ML330 ML350 |
*For more details or personalized advice, reach out to our HPE representatives.
Simplify HPE ProLiant Server Selection
Understanding the HPE server naming convention is the first step to finding the perfect server for your business. Whether you're looking for blade servers for dense computing, rack servers for scalable data centers, or tower servers for small offices, Renewtech has the solution.
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