As technology evolves, so do the products that support IT environments across the globe. Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has announced that after a 7 year run, the Gen10 server line will be marked end of life (EOL) on May 1, 2024. Furthermore, the last OCA order date (discontinuation date) will be on October 31, 2024. For the first time in 7 years, HPE will open up their fiscal year (FY25) with Gen10 servers in the rearview mirror. How will the millions of Gen10 units be serviced? Are there any options out there for customers who still need to procure complete Gen10 servers? Or simply Gen10 parts? Read on for all these answers and more.
Understanding the Significance of Gen10's EOL Status
What Does EOL and Discontinued Mean?
End-of-life (EOL) signals the intent by the vendor to no longer manufacturer the product line. For HPE Gen10 servers, this means that while existing customers will still have access to support and service for a limited period, new purchases via OCA will no longer be available once the product line reaches its discontinuation date (10/31).
What Are Your Options?
Upgrade to Gen11
The official response from HPE is to upgrade to a Gen11 or newer server. Newer servers do offer increased performance and efficiency but at a higher price tag when compared to Gen10. While G11 is the future of compute, it is important to note that it is overkill for a large percentage of G10 customers. Many have also yet approve/validate their software on something other than a Gen10 server (G10 servers have been shipping since July of 2017).
Continue Purchasing Gen10 Servers from B2X
B2X Global represents a unique position in the HPE distribution channel that allows us to stock hundreds of Gen10 servers and options even after the 10/31 discontinuation date. We understand that certain environments and applications mandate G10 equipment which is why we have taken a large inventory position on these product lines. While G10 won't last forever, it will certainly last quite a bit longer with B2X at your disposal.
Upgrading & Maintaining Gen10
Just like new G10 server purchases, B2X will continue to inventory all the necessary components to support and upgrade the millions of G10 units currently deployed. From CPUs and Memory to drives and networking, a portion of our inventory position will continue to be dedicated to G10. You'll notice that the larger distributors have already started to allow their G10 inventory to decrease to make room for Gen11 and eventually Gen12.
How Are Gen10 Warranties Impacted?
In short, they are not. HPE will continue to sell and honor support contracts for at least 5 years after 10/31/2024. Gen10 servers purchased from B2X are eligible for HPE warranty even if purchased after the 10/31 discontinuation date.
The End of an Era
The discontinuation of HPE Gen10 servers marks an important turning point for many organizations. A 7 year run for Gen10 makes it the longest HPE server lifecycle ever! Many organizations will need to begin to shift their attention to validating their solutions on newer platforms but in the meantime, we are here to keep the torch burning on Gen10.
Please get in touch with us at sales@b2xglobal.com if you or someone you know needs to continue purchasing Ge10 equipment. We have a very generous referral program if you happen to share this news with a friend.
