System x3950 X6
Eight-socket scale-up system, typically found under SAP HANA or large Oracle databases.
The System x3950 X6 is an end-of-life model with no vendor support; we keep it running while you plan a replacement. Eight-socket scale-up system, typically found under SAP HANA or large Oracle databases.
Platform facts
| Vendor | Lenovo |
|---|---|
| Generation | X6 |
| Family | System x |
| Form factor | 8U rack |
| Sockets | 8 |
| CPU | Intel Xeon E7-8800 v2 / v3 / v4 |
| DIMM slots | 192 |
| Memory | DDR3 or DDR4 RDIMM / LRDIMM depending on Compute Book, up to 12 TB |
| Storage | Up to 16x 2.5-inch hot-swap SAS/SATA plus eXFlash DIMM options |
| RAID | ServeRAID M5210 |
| Management | Integrated Management Module II (IMM2) |
| Released | 2014 |
| Status | end of life |
Field notes
Two x3850 X6 halves joined; the same Compute Book rules apply, and partitioning into two 4S systems is possible in firmware. Heavy and power hungry, typically over 4 kW. Firmware via UXSPI or Bootable Media Creator. Out of support; the SR950 V3 is the modern equivalent.
Successor: ThinkSystem SR950.
What we do with the System x3950 X6
- Specification and procurement of ThinkSystem servers
- Rack installation, XCC setup and UEFI/firmware baseline
- Memory, NVMe and RAID upgrades with qualified parts
- Out-of-warranty repair and spare sourcing for System x and ThinkServer
- OS and hypervisor installs
- Lenovo support case handling and refresh planning
Keep it or replace it?
A System x3950 X6 can keep doing a single job for years if it has good backups, current firmware and spare parts on the shelf. It should not be the only copy of anything, and it should not be internet-facing on an unsupported OS. We will tell you honestly whether a memory or disk upgrade buys useful time or whether the money belongs in a replacement.
Replacement planning covers the OS and licences, not only the box: a System x3950 X6 running Windows Server 2012 or an old ESXi needs a migration plan, not a lift-and-shift.
Related models
Related services
Frequently asked questions
Is Lenovo a good alternative to Dell?
Yes. ThinkSystem servers are equally reliable, often priced sharply, and XClarity management is mature. We support both and recommend whichever fits the existing fleet.
Can you still service System x servers?
Yes. System x M5 and X6 systems are legacy but parts are available and we keep them running while planning a replacement.
Can the System x3950 X6 run a current operating system?
Check the field notes above. As a rule, current models are certified for Windows Server 2022/2025, ESXi 8 and RHEL 9; legacy models usually stop at Windows Server 2019 or ESXi 7 and may need Proxmox or an older Linux to stay useful.
Need a hand with this?
Tell us what you are running and what is slowing you down. You get a straight assessment and a plan, with no obligation. Support desk is staffed 24/7.