Apple introduces new server

Apple Computer Inc. today launched its new Xserve G5 server, the latest upgrade to its rack-mounted server line. The system, which fits into one slot in a standard rack, is about 60 percent faster than the previous model, which is based on the G4 processor, officials said. The Xserve G5 can run about 30 billion operations a second, or 30 gigaflops.

Also today, company officials announced that CDW Government Inc., one of its partners, will begin selling Apple products through the Scientific and Engineering Workstation Procurement III contract. NASA runs the governmentwide contract.

Apple made the announcements at the FOSE Trade Show in Washington, D.C., today. The single processor Xserve G5 will begin shipping this week, and a dual-processor model will become available next month, said Douglas Brooks, product manager for server hardware at Apple.

For security, the company ships all products with services turned off and ports closed, Brooks said. Administrators deliberately turn on those they need. That minimizes the risks that a hacker could gain access to the system via an open port or unneeded service that no one realized was available.

"When you connect a new server, it's a matter of minutes, not hours, before somebody tries to hack it," said John Brandon, Apple vice president for the Americas and Asia Pacific.