Hi Gene,
Seriously,
1. Calculate the amount of time until retirement. If you choose 65 years old, that would be 65 yo minutes 45 years old = 20 years.
But, let's say seven years.
2. Get cost from AC
3. Calculate cost using your average use over "seven" years.
4. Calculate how much it would cost over seven years if your purchased a new server and upgraded any hardware such as switches or routers, etc. I use seven years because servers now last quite a bit of time. I would calculate a five year next day warranty. Then estimate a two-year extension, unless you can get seven years right off the bat.
5. Calculate how much you would save by DIY tech even if you have to pay a local tech company
6. Data may be easy to get from the cloud. Good question, but as you go into retirement mode, consider how easily and quickly you can make records, etc.
7. Drink a six-pack or a bottle of wine or both and make a decision.
