The reason companies consider a data center is for a feeling of security – for an assurance that their hardware will be kept at optimal running conditions, no matter the circumstances. Because if this happens, then business continues as usual.
Yet, not all data centers are created equally, and if you contract with a subpar data center, your hardware and business continuity can’t be guaranteed. Below are six standards to consider when searching for a well-prepared, well-equipped data center, one you can count on during weather events, power outages, and more.
For a detailed look at these six standards, click here.
1. Accessibility via Automobile
Considering the roadways to and from your data center is critical. Determining if there are alternative routes is just as important since roadways may be blocked with debris during inclement weather.
Look for a data center with diverse roadways – major highways, plus smaller roads – leading to it. Employees can access hardware and continue working during catastrophic weather events.
2. Diverse Connectivity
Contracting with a data center that utilizes a variety of internet providers gives you “layers” of internet. If one provider isn’t available (bad weather, equipment issues, etc.), you still have internet access. Seek a data center with multiple, unique carriers and network providers with diverse paths of entry into the facility.
3. Redundant Power
Redundant power, or a power source in case the first source fails, is critical. Without it, equipment troubles, a backhoe digging in the wrong area, or severe weather shuts down power, possibly damaging your hardware and causing downtime. And downtime is expensive. Hardware is too.
Search for a data center with the infrastructure for redundant power. And ask, is the redundant power fully operational, partial, or distributed.
4. Redundant Cooling
Much like connectivity and power, a data center must have multiple ways to ensure cooling. Since the environment inside can never change, a data center’s infrastructure must be designed so a malfunction does not cause fluctuation in humidity or temperature.
Ask about the specifications for the data center’s HVAC system and what processes (for people and equipment) are in place to ensure a steady environment.
5. On-Site Staff Availability
This standard is often overlooked, but it shouldn’t be. With technology taking center stage in a data center, the human beings who staff it are the real superstars. Look for a data center that guarantees a trained on-site staff, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
6. Service Level Agreement (SLA)
Yes, the infrastructure for redundant power, cooling, and connectivity is vital. But, it’s the 100% uptime SLA that makes these measures the expectation…the norm…the standard for a data center.
Read carefully SLAs. Some data centers rely on insurance policies to provide 100% compensation if downtime occurs. Seek a data center with 100% uptime, even in the fine print.
About FIBERTOWN
We examine each of these six measures in more detail in this PDF. Download it and consider them as you search for a data center.
But know…at FIBERTOWN, we confidently meet – and exceed – these measures at both of our locations (Bryan-College Station and Houston).