Server and Client Computer Recommendations
Whether your clinic has been utilizing CoAction for several years or you are just starting with CoAction, you will have a wealth of patient data stored on your servers.
Implementing the proper equipment from the start and upgrading outdated PC's is essential for maintaining EMR performance, improving reliability, and ensuring secure access to patient records. This guide is designed to assist you in your hardware journey.
✅ Summary
✅Full Details
1. Server Computers: Core Considerations for Clinics
Servers store all patient records, imaging, and EMR databases. For clinics with 1-10+ years of data, server performance depends on CPU power, RAM, storage capacity, and network reliability.
Key Requirements for Replacement Servers
Form Factor: Use a tower or rack server; Laptops are not recommended for servers due to cooling and reliability issues.
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Processor:
Moderate workload (2–5 workstations): 8-core Intel i9 / Ryzen 9
High workload (5–20+ workstations, large databases, imaging): Entry-level server CPUs like Intel Xeon or AMD EPYC
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RAM:
Minimum: 64 GB
High-demand: 128 GB (especially for multiple applications or large databases)
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Storage:
OS & applications: 1–2 TB NVMe SSD
EMR database & historical data: 4–8 TB SSD or enterprise-grade HDD in RAID1/RAID10
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Network:
Gigabit Ethernet minimum; consider 2.5 GbE or 10 GbE for clinics with high file transfer needs
Operating System: Windows 11 Pro or Server 2022 preferred for longevity and security
Firewall: Microsoft Windows Defender. Choosing another option can dramatically affect communication between the Server and Client Pc's.
Important: Avoid installing SQL Server on a domain controller — separating roles improves performance and follows Microsoft best practices.
2. Client Computers: Fast, Reliable Workstations for Staff
Client PCs connect to your server to access EMR and other clinic applications. Replacement client PCs should strike a balance between performance, cost, and future scalability.
Recommended Specifications
Processor: Intel Core i7 / Ryzen 7 for moderate workloads; Core i9 / Ryzen 9 is preferred.
RAM: 16–32 GB, depending on software and workload
Storage: 512 GB SSD minimum; 1 TB preferred
Display: 22–27″ monitors; 1920×1080 resolution minimum; dual monitors recommended for high-demand workflows
Network: Wired Gigabit Ethernet recommended; Wi-Fi 6 with WPA3 optional
Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
Mac Clients: Allowed only if Parallels + fully licensed Windows 11 is installed
Tip: Touchscreen monitors are useful for self check-in stations but optional for standard workstations.
3. Server & Client Recommendations by Clinic Workload
| Clinic Type | Server CPU & RAM | Storage | Client Specs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate Load (2–5 PCs) | Core i9 / Ryzen 9, 64 GB RAM | 1–2 TB NVMe OS, 4 TB RAID1 data | Core i7 / Ryzen 7 or Core i9 / Ryzen 9, 16–32 GB RAM, 512 GB–1 TB SSD | Ideal for clinics with older data but moderate user load |
| High Load (5–20+ PCs, imaging, multiple apps) | Intel Xeon / AMD EPYC, 128 GB RAM | 2 TB NVMe OS, 8 TB+ RAID10 data | Core i9 / Ryzen 9, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, dual monitors | Handles large databases, imaging, and future growth |
4. Backup & Data Protection
Backups: CoAction performs nightly backups for all client databases, ensuring historical patient data is securely protected. Clinics do not need to maintain additional backups. It is imperative that your server remain on and not set to hibernate to ensure backups are received.
Local Backup: If you are looking for added security, you can create a local backup on an external hard drive or flash drive, which can be overwritten each time, but you must make sure the proper security measures are taken to protect your sensitive HIPAA-protected data. If you would like to maintain a secondary backup, please click HERE for the necessary file location information.
Server Maintenance: Regular monitoring, updates, and maintenance of the server remain critical to prevent downtime and maintain EMR performance.
Tip: Even with CoAction’s offsite backups, having at least one local copy ensures immediate recovery in the rare event of a server failure or network outage.
5. Optional Mac Clients
Macs can be used as client PCs if:
The full version of Parallels is installed
A fully licensed Windows 11 or higher is installed within Parallels
Trial versions are not supported and cannot run the EMR properly.
6. Recommended Replacement Server Options
Lenovo ThinkSystem ST45 V3 – Compact, reliable for moderate workloads
HPE ProLiant MicroServer Gen10 Plus v2 – Affordable, easy to manage
Dell PowerEdge T160 – Cost-effective tower with room to grow
Lenovo ThinkSystem ST50 V3 – Mid-tier tower for growing clinics
HPE ProLiant ML350 Gen10 – High-end tower for large databases and imaging
7. Recommended Replacement Client PC Options
HP Z2 Tower G1i – Reliable workstation for standard and advanced tasks
Intel NUC / Small Form Factor i7 – Space-saving option for smaller workstations
Custom-built Core i7/i9 or Ryzen 7/9 PCs – Flexible, high-performance option
8. Key Tips for a Smooth Upgrade
Keep the server accessible for maintenance and monitoring.
Please make sure the network is private and secure, with wired connections when possible.
Regularly update OS, drivers, and EMR software for stability and security.
Always plan for future growth in storage, the number of workstations, and network speed.
Even with CoAction offsite backups, maintain onsite redundancy to protect against immediate hardware failures.
Need Help?
Our Support Team is here to assist you.
💬 Live Chat: In your toolbar, click Support Portal, then the green Support box in the bottom-right corner. (Fastest response time)
📞 Phone: 909-378-9514
📧 Email: support@coactionsoft.com
🕒 Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM CST
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