The DL380 handled whatever task I handed it, from security services and managing security databases, to supporting a SQL database and running a VoIP PBX, all without breaking a sweat.

This good performance is to be expected, given the fact that this machine had plenty of memory and a pair of 3.6GHz Xeons with hyperthreading. Adding dual-core processors would have sped it up further, but for most users, it's already plenty fast, especially considering the price.

What really matters is the larger performance picture: The whole pathway, from the network through the processors and memory to the disk, is made as efficient as possible in the DL380. Data flies down the path from the dual Gigabit Ethernet interface, through the speedy FSB and system bus and into the computer. If you have bottlenecks on your network, this server may help alleviate them.

A hefty piece of hardware

The only complaint I had with this unit is that it weighs a lot: While the exact weight depends on what's installed, the DL380 is easily over 50 pounds. It will take two people to install it, and if you have to remove it from the rack, you'll need them again. This weight is due to the strong structure that helps make this server very reliable, but it's still a hefty piece of equipment.