Dell PowerEdge R740 Servers

The Dell PowerEdge R740 is a highly versatile 2U rack server engineered to power a wide range of demanding applications, including virtualization, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and software-defined storage. Designed with optimal balance between compute resources, memory capacity, and storage flexibility, the R740 delivers exceptional scalability and performance for mid to large-scale enterprises and data centers. It supports dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors, expansive memory configurations, and flexible storage options including NVMe, making it ideal for evolving IT workloads and high-density virtualization environments. With built-in automation tools, advanced thermal management, and industry-leading security features, the R740 enables IT transformation through intelligent infrastructure.

Performance

The Dell PowerEdge R740 supports up to two 1st or 2nd Generation Intel Xeon Scalable processors, offering up to 28 cores per processor (56 total cores) for outstanding parallel processing power. Designed for data-intensive workloads, the R740 is ideal for hosting virtual machines, supporting large databases, and running real-time analytics or business-critical applications. It features Intel AVX-512 and up to 3 UPI links per CPU for high-throughput, low-latency interconnects, delivering the performance needed for compute-heavy operations. The R740’s generous compute capabilities are complemented by its 2U form factor, which enables greater I/O and storage flexibility compared to 1U servers. This makes the R740 a strong candidate for workloads that demand both processing power and hardware expandability.

Memory and Scalability

The PowerEdge R740 supports up to 24 DDR4 DIMM slots, allowing a total memory capacity of up to 3TB using LRDIMMs (2nd Gen Xeon CPUs required). Memory speeds up to 2933 MT/s ensure efficient data transfer, reduced latency, and optimal performance for applications such as virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), SAP HANA, and in-memory databases. ECC (Error Correcting Code) memory ensures data integrity and protects against corruption in mission-critical environments. With support for Intel Optane Persistent Memory (with supported CPUs), the R740 can also enhance memory density and persistence for latency-sensitive applications. The system's memory scalability makes it well-suited for organizations needing future-proof infrastructure to accommodate growing workloads.

Storage Flexibility

The Dell PowerEdge R740 offers exceptional storage versatility with several backplane configurations:

• Up to 16 x 2.5" drives (SAS, SATA, or NVMe)
• Up to 8 x 3.5" drives for high-capacity needs
• Optional hybrid configurations combining HDDs, SSDs, and NVMe
  

It supports Dell’s BOSS-S1 boot-optimized M.2 SSD controller and offers RAID options via PERC H740P or HBA330 for optimal storage performance and data protection. NVMe support enables ultra-low latency and high IOPS, ideal for applications like OLTP databases or AI model training. The R740's flexible storage design makes it adaptable for SDS environments, media streaming, or mission-critical transactional workloads. Whether prioritizing capacity, speed, or redundancy, the R740’s storage options scale with business needs.

I/O and Expandability

The PowerEdge R740 provides significant expandability with up to 8 PCIe Gen 3.0 slots and multiple riser configurations, allowing for extensive customization. It supports multiple GPU configurations (up to 3 x double-width GPUs or 6 x single-width GPUs), enabling GPU acceleration for workloads like AI inference, machine learning, or CAD rendering. The modular network daughter card (NDC) supports 1GbE, 10GbE, or 25GbE networking, ensuring future-proof connectivity. Additional options include Fibre Channel HBAs, NVMe expanders, and storage controllers. This level of expandability allows the R740 to scale performance and connectivity to meet diverse data center requirements.

Virtualization and Workload Optimization

The Dell PowerEdge R740 is purpose-built for virtualization platforms such as VMware, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Red Hat Virtualization. With high core counts, large memory capacity, and GPU support, it can consolidate more VMs per host, maximizing return on investment in virtualized environments. It also supports workloads such as database servers, private cloud, VDI, and AI frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. Dell’s workload-optimized BIOS settings let IT admins fine-tune system performance to match the specific demands of different workloads. Whether running a hyperconverged infrastructure stack or hybrid cloud workloads, the R740 provides the flexibility, density, and reliability needed for efficient multi-role deployment.

Management and Automation

The R740 includes the Dell iDRAC9 with Lifecycle Controller for robust, agent-free server management and automation. IT teams can monitor hardware, deploy firmware updates, and troubleshoot issues remotely through the iDRAC web interface or CLI tools. Dell OpenManage Enterprise provides centralized monitoring and management across multiple PowerEdge systems, reducing time spent on maintenance. Integration with RESTful APIs and Redfish allows for seamless DevOps and cloud-native toolchain integration. Optional OpenManage Mobile and Quick Sync 2 further enable convenient mobile-based server provisioning and status monitoring. These management tools simplify administration and ensure operational continuity across IT environments.

Energy Efficiency

The PowerEdge R740 is designed for energy-efficient operation, with support for 495W, 750W, 1100W, and 1600W 80 PLUS Platinum/Titanium-certified power supplies. Advanced multi-vector cooling and smart fan control ensure optimal airflow and thermal performance, adapting dynamically to workload demands. Dell’s thermal design innovations help reduce power draw without compromising performance, resulting in a lower total cost of ownership (TCO). Power monitoring and power capping features allow administrators to manage energy budgets and maintain compliance with green data center policies. These features make the R740 an ideal choice for high-performance environments looking to optimize energy use.

Reliability and Availability

The Dell PowerEdge R740 delivers enterprise-class reliability with features like redundant hot-swappable power supplies, hot-swappable drives, ECC memory, and predictive failure alerts. Proactive support tools detect and notify administrators of potential hardware issues before they result in downtime. Secure Boot, System Lockdown, and cryptographically signed firmware updates ensure data and system integrity. Optional Dell ProSupport and ProSupport Plus services enhance availability with 24x7 expert assistance and predictive issue resolution. These reliability and security features make the R740 well-suited for organizations that require continuous uptime and strong operational resilience.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Compute Power: Dual Intel Xeon Scalable CPUs (up to 56 total cores)
• Memory Capacity: Up to 3TB DDR4 ECC memory across 24 DIMM slots
• Storage Options: Up to 16 x 2.5” or 8 x 3.5” drives; NVMe support
• I/O Expandability: Up to 8 PCIe Gen 3.0 slots and NDC networking
• Virtualization Support: Ideal for VMware, Hyper-V, SDS, VDI, and private cloud
• Management Tools: iDRAC9, OpenManage Enterprise, Redfish APIs, Quick Sync 2
• Energy Efficiency: Platinum/Titanium PSUs, thermal optimization, power capping
• Reliability: Redundant components, predictive diagnostics, secure firmware
  

Business Value

The Dell PowerEdge R740 is an enterprise-grade server built to meet the growing demands of digital transformation, data growth, and IT modernization. With powerful compute resources, extensive I/O, and flexible storage in a 2U footprint, it supports a diverse range of workloads while delivering scalability and efficiency. Whether deployed in a traditional data center, private cloud, or as part of a virtualized or hyper-converged solution, the R740 provides dependable performance with streamlined management. Its future-ready architecture and advanced automation make it a strategic investment for organizations aiming to stay competitive in a digital-first world. From virtualization to AI, the R740 is a resilient platform that adapts to evolving IT landscapes.