Fast, secure, reliable connectivity built for how your business actually works

Not every business needs a server — but when you do, it has to be fast, secure and fit for purpose.

At LeftBrain, we design and deploy bespoke server infrastructure that meets the demands of high-performance teams.

Whether you’re working with huge files, legacy systems, or need rapid onsite access, we build solutions that keep your data organised, accessible and protected.

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Why local server deployment still matters

Cloud storage is great — until it isn’t.

If you work with large files, need low-latency access, or want tighter control over where and how your data lives, a local server can outperform SaaS tools.

We recommend on-premise server setups when:

• You are sharing large video, photo or design files across your team
• Cloud syncing slows down your workflow or clogs your bandwidth
• You need secure local access without relying on the internet
• You want full ownership and configurability of your storage infrastructure
• You have compliance, performance or workflow requirements that cloud tools cannot meet

This is especially relevant for creative studios, production houses, or hybrid businesses with dedicated in-office workstations.

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Network-attached storage (NAS): fast access, local control

For many of our clients, the right solution is Network-Attached Storage (NAS) — high-capacity, centralised storage connected to your internal network.

Benefits of NAS:

• Rapid access speeds across wired or wireless local networks
• Reliable performance when working with 4K video, RAW photo files or layered design assets
• Centralised backup and version control
• Full administrative control over users, access and file structure
• Simple expansion paths for growing storage needs

NAS gives you the speed of local access with the structure of a proper IT system.

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Our server deployment process

Every business is different. That’s why we start with questions, not kit.

Step 1: Initial consultation

We sit down with you to understand:

• How many users need access
• The average and peak file sizes you work with
• What your current setup looks like and what is holding it back
• Whether your priority is speed, security, scalability or all three

Step 2: Capacity planning

We assess your current data usage, projected growth and workflow patterns.

From there, we calculate storage requirements — ensuring the system we build has room to scale without starting from scratch.

Step 3: Design and deployment

We propose a fit-for-purpose solution based on your environment. This may include:

• NAS systems
• Rack-mounted servers
• Hybrid setups combining local and cloud storage
• Wired network upgrades to support high-speed transfers
• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and server cabinet installation

We then install, configure and test the system — ready for real-world use from day one.

Step 4: Backup and monitoring

We don’t just hand it over. We make sure your data is backed up properly, monitored continuously and protected against failure or unauthorised access.

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Security and resilience built in

A server is only as good as the systems protecting it. Every deployment includes:

• User role and permission setup
• Remote admin access for approved team members
• Multi-location or cloud-integrated backups
• Antivirus and firewall configuration
• Monitoring dashboards and alerting
• Physical access security options, including cabinet locks or restricted areas

We make sure your server is stable, secure and never left unmanaged.

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Who needs a local server?

We recommend on-premise server setups for:

• Video production teams working with hundreds of gigabytes per project
• Design studios handling high-resolution files or frequent revisions
• Photographers or post-production teams needing reliable storage with no upload wait times
• Architectural or CAD teams where cloud lag slows down render speeds
• Businesses with poor or unreliable internet connections
• Companies preparing for compliance audits who need data ownership and local redundancy

If your cloud tools are slowing you down, a server might speed everything up.

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What this unlocks for your team

For creative teams

• Faster file access and collaboration
• No more waiting for cloud uploads or syncs
• Reliable access in the studio or on set

For operations

• Predictable, structured storage
• Easier onboarding and access management
• Confidence in compliance and continuity

For IT or technical managers

• Centralised control and visibility
• Less reliance on internet-based tools
• Easier backup and disaster recovery

For leadership

• Better performance with lower risk
• Infrastructure that grows with your business
• A team that spends more time working and less time waiting

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Why LeftBrain

We don’t just sell hardware. We solve workflow problems.

Our server deployments are designed around real teams, real data and real-world use cases.

Whether you’re growing fast, working with demanding file types or just tired of slow syncs, we’ll build a storage solution that works.

You get:

• A bespoke infrastructure setup
• Seamless deployment with minimal downtime
• Built-in monitoring and ongoing support
• Honest recommendations and scalable design

“This network-attached storage project for our New Look photography studio went really well. I’ve got to be honest, for such a complex piece of work I expected there to be more issues. The occasional thing crops up and is dealt with quickly, but generally everything just seems to work, which is what you want.”