The technical personnel of a large corporation will probably have heard of server colocation, and would at some point of time think of using this service. Let us explain the basics of server colocation and why you need it.
What is server colocation?
A server colocation hosting refers to the services provided by a data center that rents out space for its customers to store their servers and other computing hardware. In other words, the provider rents out space in its data center for its customers to put their hardware (servers) in.
The services that are usually provided by a server colocation hosting provider are:
- Physical security
- High-speed internet connection for performance
- Reliable power supply
- Heat radiation and cooling system
Some providers include additional services such as 24×7 network monitoring and DDoS mitigation, offering peace of mind to server owners.
Is there a difference between server colocation hosting and dedicated server hosting? Yes, there are, although they have rather similar functions.
| Server Colocation | Dedicated Server Hosting | |
| What are they? | A data center rents out open space for its customers to store their servers and other computing hardware. However, other resources like hardware are not included. | Resources are 100% reserved to the client; the client does not share Internet connectivity, hardware, disk, etc with anyone. |
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Why do you need it?
The question ‘why do I need…’ is often being asked for the benefits of having a certain thing. So what are the benefits of having a server colocation service?
1. Space-saving
One of the main reasons why users opt for server colocation is space. Colocation can free up your valuable office space by storing your hardware server in the hosting data center of the colocation service provider. The extra space you earn can be used for other purposes such as seating and production.
2. Save costs
Colocation service is a cost-effective option as you do not need to invest in purchasing racks, HVAC units, a backup generator, not to mention the additional cost for operating and maintaining these equipment. A server colocation service helps you operate those facilities and cut down costs.
3. Reliable power
A reliable power can be one of the benefits of choosing a colocation service. Power generators, internet access and everything that is important for your business will be provided with a backup system in order to prevent power outages and downtime.
4. 24x7x365 Support
There is a team of engineers who work 24×7 to monitor the colocation site and provide immediate support when something goes wrong. Moreover, these professionals are there to ensure great server management and efficiency.
5. Security and protection of data
A state-of-the-art security system is in place to secure your data, server and also other computing hardware. Getting in and out of the data center is not easy as the place is guarded with security personnel 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Fire suppression, smoke detection, CCTV surveillance systems are all provided in the facility. Moreover, the temperature control feature is there to keep your servers running at peak performance.
What are the things you should be looking out for when it comes to choosing a colocation service?
We listed down 4 main important points for you to make a better decision. Understand them before you start to move your server hardware over to the data center of your provider.
1. Pick location wisely
You should be ready to go to the data center when a problem arises as you are responsible for the maintenance and installation of your server. Pick a location that is suitable for your server — a location that is near to your office and provides the best network connectivity.
2. Transparency
It is important for you to choose a company that practices transparency and provides you with self-monitoring and management of your server without any hidden charges. Understand the provider’s terms and conditions before picking them.
3. Flexibility
Power, space, cooling system and internet connectivity are very important for the growth of your business. It’s important for the provider to have contiguous space to shorten network run between cabinets, as well as a good cooling system to cool down your infrastructure. Good internet connectivity is also a must for providing a high-speed when operating your server.
4. Physical security
In an event of a natural disaster, downtime and data loss due to mismanagement. A good data center will protect you from these issues by providing a backup system. The latest security technology should also be installed by the data center in order to make sure that your data resources are in a safe place.
With all the great tips above, the next question you should be asking is: when should you go for server colocation.
If your business requires both your employees and customers to access the data resources all the time, colocation will be a better choice for you as it provides a redundant backup power that can ensure uptime.
Hosting your own computing resources on your own premises without the required facilities such as a cooling system, high power, and internet connectivity will also put your business at risk. In this case, with colocation, you will be able to avoid these problems and save costs at the same time. This is because these equipment and hardware would incur high expenses and management costs.
If you are still not sure about server colocation, contact our experts who will be able to provide you with a free consultation and the best solution that is both cost-effective and reliable.
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