all the guys with d-servers out there... do you guys have regular hard failures? if you have any, which is the most common component?

im thinking the hard disk... but other then?

The reason im asking this, is because im comparing dedicated server options with co-location.. and co-location comes up to be cheaper...

thanx for the help

If you use quality parts in the server you're building, you shouldn't have to worry about hardware failures. We have (on average) about 1 part fail per 25 servers per year.

Most colo hosts will replace hardware for you, as well (of course they'll charge you).

hard drives are usually the most common failure. If you use a RAID array, then you dont have to worry about much.

I recommend A) Creating a mirror of your drives and B) Make sure you get regular backups and
C) Ask what spares, if any, your provider has onsite.

I agree with everyone that has posted. Whatever you do whether it is RAID or backups or both. Make sure that the backups are in good working order. Also, make sure that if you have multiple drives that you keep them cooled and there is a very good air flow for your server. It is a good idea to get a tour of the colo facility to make sure they keep their data center cold as well.