What is Server Colocation?
Server Colocation is a data center solution wherein you can rent a space and get hardware for your IT requirements. The server colocation provider would then provide your server with power supplies, cooling systems and all the other facilities a data center must have even though it is your hardware that has been provisioned in the data center.
Though, however, the provider would have little say in matters concerning the use of your server, it can interfere wherein there is a technical glitch or your server needs maintenance. Technically it is not at all easy for an organization to set up a data center as it requires enormous upfront expenses, additional expertise, and increased staff requirements. With power cooling systems, a colocation facility is the right space you require to operate your IT. The operator would also provide in-hand service and expertise with the leasing space, servicing every aspect of the hardware.
Unlocking Server Colocation
At its core, Data Centers or hosting organizations provide server colocation, wherein you can rent physical space to house your servers and IT equipment. Despite hosting your equipment on-site, you place it in a professional data center. Your servers share a common physical space with those of other businesses, however, each client’s equipment remains distinctly segregated. Let’s dive deep into the key aspects of server colocation:
Physical Space Rental: Server Colocation includes renting rack space within a data center. It depends on your requirements, this space can differ from a single rack unit to a whole private suite.
Robust Security: Data Centers acquire security systems in place, like biometric access control, surveillance cameras, and on-site security officers. This protects your equipment through unauthorized access and physical threats.
High-Speed Connectivity: Colocation Facilities provide high-speed, redundant internet connectivity through various internet service providers (ISPs). This connectivity is necessary for maintaining uptime and fast data transfer.
Power and Cooling: Data centers have backup power generators and cooling systems to secure service disruptions. These facilities are catered to ensure uninterrupted server operation, even during power outages.
Redundancy: Redundancy turns out to be a fundamental design principle in data centers. This involves backup power, internet connectivity, and cooling systems. Redundancy reduces the risk of downtime because of technical issues.
Cost-Effective: Server Colocation is cost-effective. It is an alternative to building and maintaining an in-house data center. But, they only pay for the space, power, and cooling. They do this despite investing in data centers.
Remote Management: Organizations can remotely manage their colocated servers securely. This eradicates the requirement for on-site maintenance and allows for easy scalability.
Compliance and Standards: Multiple colocation facilities provide environments that adhere to multiple industry compliance standards, simplifying regulatory compliance for businesses.
Disaster Recovery: Colocation is a necessary component of a comprehensive disaster recovery strategy. During a disaster at the primary location, data and services can be restored immediately through backup systems in the colocation facility.
24/7 Technical Support: Some colocation providers enable technical support and services, involving hardware replacement and troubleshooting assistance.
Predictable Costs: Colocation Services come with fixed monthly costs, providing cost predictability for businesses.
Is Server Colocation suitable for your business?
Determining whether server colocation is preferable for your business is a necessary decision that includes considering multiple factors. Below, we will explore in detail the key considerations to help you evaluate if server colocation aligns with your business requirements and objectives.
Scalability
Server colocation is one of the most excellent options for enterprises that require scalability and flexibility. If your IT infrastructure needs are likely to grow or change over time, colocation provides a solution that allows you to quickly add or remove servers as needed. This scalability is valuable for businesses that experience periodic surges in data and processing needs.
Uptime and Reliability
Kennies Colocation Facilities are designed keeping in mind reliability and uptime. They provide redundant power supplies, backup generators, multiple internet connections, and advanced cooling systems. These measures lower the possibility of downtime because of power failures, technical difficulties, or network disruptions. If your organization depends on continuous access to data and applications, specifically mission-critical systems, server colocation assists with a high level of reliability.
Security and Compliance
Multiple businesses operate within industries with security and compliance regulations, like healthcare (HIPPA), Finance (PCI DSS), or government (FIGMA). Colocation facilities provide environments that adhere to these standards, with robust security measures, controlled access, and server colocation can simplify the process of maintaining regulatory compliance.
Disaster Recovery
Strategic disaster recovery planning is necessary for business continuity. Server Colocation is a necessary part of this strategy. While colocating your servers in a separate geographic location through your primary site, you create a backup that can immediately get activated during a disaster at your main location. This assures the continuity of your data and services.
Cost Analysis: The decision to opt for server colocation is based on cost analysis. Calculate the total cost of ownership (TCO) for in-house infrastructure, involving server hardware, cooling systems, power supply, staffing, and facility maintenance. Then, compare this to the costs held with server colocation. While colocation comes with a monthly fee, it eradicates significant upfront capital expenses and reduces ongoing operational costs. Consider the long-term financial benefits and predictability of colocation services.
Expert Skills
Analyze your in-house technical expertise and the level of support you need. Colocation facilities have good security and infrastructure. But, you must manage and maintain your servers. Some colocation providers assist with technical support and services, including hardware replacement and troubleshooting assistance. If your team lacks the important technical skills, these services can be invaluable.
Business Objectives
Assure to consider your business’s long-term objectives and how server colocation aligns with these goals. If growth, reliability, and data security are central to your strategic plan, colocation is an ideal solution. It allows you to emphasize your core business operations while entrusting your IT Infrastructure to experts dedicated to its seamless operation.
Risk Assessment
Assess the risk to find weaknesses and potential problems in your IT. Take into consideration factors like natural disasters, power outages, and equipment failures. Server Colocation at Kennies reduces risks while placing your servers in professionally managed, resilient facilities.
Conclusion
Finally, Server Colocation is a solution that provides multiple benefits like increased security, redundancy, connection, and cost savings. To establish if it is the best option for your organization, thoroughly consider your unique IT requirements, budget, and long-term goals. Kennies Server Colocation allows businesses to focus on their core activities while leaving their IT infrastructure in the hands of specialists who guarantee it’s smooth functioning.