A Guide to the Types of Server Racks

In 2025, the need for better network connectivity, greater data storage, and faster data processing is higher than ever. Data centres host hundreds to thousands of computing equipment that run around the clock to power the world’s digital needs. As of 2025, there are over 270 data centres across Australia. 

Server racks are used in data centres to organise and manage operational needs. And while server racks are most commonly found in data centres, they are also used in commercial settings such as office IT departments, telecommunications/network centres, hospitals and medical facilities, and industrial sites. 

Whether you’re a technician or part of the IT department, choosing the right type of server rack comes down to understanding different server requirements and the features available to suit different operational needs. 

What Is a Server Rack? 

A server rack (also referred to as a network rack) is designed to securely host multiple electronic devices and computing equipment within a single frame. 

A commercial equipment setup will consist of servers, power supply units, audio and video equipment, and network switches. By installing connected devices in a single server rack, technicians and staff can conduct inspections, repairs, or replacements more efficiently, saving time and reducing the risk of errors. 

Server racks can also provide features like built-in cooling, security access, and power supply technology.

Types of Server Racks 

Open Frame Server Rack

Open frame server racks are the cheapest and easiest to install, and offer larger server rack sizes to support more equipment. Once mounted, devices can be accessed from the front or back of the server rack for maintenance. Open frame server racks are the standard option when security and access to sensitive equipment are not a concern.

Open frame models also provide maximum airflow, which is ideal for cooling but can also increase dust accumulation, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Enclosed/Cabinet Server Rack 

Enclosed server racks offer a secure solution for housing sensitive equipment. An enclosed server rack is built with lockable doors or side panels that prevent unauthorised access to servers. 

Fully enclosed server racks also minimise exposure of housed devices to dirt and dust, making them ideal for environments with heavy foot traffic, such as an office. To mitigate the reduced airflow, cabinet server racks come with fans or air-conditioning to provide better ventilation and cooling. Enclosed server racks are the standard choice for use in data centres. 

Wall-Mounted Server Rack

Wall-mounted server racks are a space-saving solution for hosting equipment setups. Instead of being placed on the floor, server racks are bolted onto walls.

Wall-mounted server racks are generally smaller in size and suited for housing smaller network installations, such as network switches, patch panels, or small servers. Wall-mounted server racks also have a weight limit - it’s important to ensure that both the wall and the rack can safely support all devices.

Self-Contained Server Rack

A self-contained server rack is designed to host all of a server’s infrastructure within a single unit including a dedicated power supply, cooling, and fire suppression systems where necessary.

A self-contained server rack is ideal for an environment that cannot support the conditions of a server room, such as air-conditioning or dust control. All of the components necessary for efficient operation are built into the rack environment, allowing it to work as a standalone piece of equipment.

Portable/Mobile Rack

A portable server rack is great for applications where equipment needs to be moved around frequently, like a temporary event setup. Mobile racks are similar in size to open frame or enclosed racks, with castor wheels on the bottom of the frame. The wheels can be locked in place to keep the rack stable. Portable racks are perfect for temporary equipment deployment.

Waterproof Outdoor Server Racks

Outdoor server racks are built to withstand rain, dust, and extreme temperatures, offering effective protection for housed devices to continue operating without risk of damage. Outdoor server racks can be fully sealed and have an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of IP66, which indicates dust and water resistance. Equipment that must be located outdoors, such as telecommunications or environmental monitoring systems, is usually housed in an outdoor server rack. 

At RackLink, we provide custom power cables, mounting rails, and power distribution units that are fully compatible with all types of server racks. We manufacture and supply our server rack equipment locally in Australia for commercial and industrial applications.