If you’re looking for a data center, it’s important to first understand the different types available and what their key features are.
Data centers are different in terms of architecture or the applications and data they support with their networking infrastructure, storage infrastructure, and computing.
Here’s a rundown of the most common 6 types of data centers: company, colocation, edge, hyperscale, cloud, and container.
Table of Contents
1. Company Data Centers
Company data centers are privately owned facilities used by a single organization. They are usually custom designed to support the company’s software and processes. Companies with specific network requirements or data privacy concerns often opt for this kind of data center.
The location of enterprise data centers is often chosen based on factors such as availability of low-cost power, connectivity to key network hubs, or proximity to end users.
2. Colocation Data Centers
A colocation data center is a facility where businesses can rent space to house their server and networking equipment. Colocation providers typically own and operate the infrastructure and offer a variety of services to their customers, such as power, cooling, and connectivity.
The main advantage of colocation is that it offers a cost-effective way for businesses to outsource their data center infrastructure. In addition, colocation gives businesses the flexibility to scale their operations as needed.
3. Edge Data Centers
Edge data centers are smaller facilities located close to end users, typically at the “edge” of a network. Edge data centers are used to store and process data closer to the source, which can improve performance and reduce latency.
Edge data centers are often used for applications such as content delivery, gaming, and IoT. They can also be used to support specific business processes, such as point-of-sale transactions or real-time data analytics.
4. Hyperscale Data Centers
A hyperscale data center is a very large facility designed to support the massive computing and storage needs of large Internet companies, such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon. Hyperscale data centers are often custom-built to meet the specific needs of the tenant.
Hyperscale data centers typically have a modular design that can be easily expanded as needed. They also tend to be highly automated, with sophisticated monitoring and management systems.
5. Cloud Data Centers
Cloud data centers are facilities that house computer systems and associated components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. Cloud data centers are used to provide cloud computing services, such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).
Cloud data centers are often located near areas with low-cost power and good connectivity. They may also be designed to be highly energy efficient and use renewable energy sources.
6. Container Data Centers
Container data centers are modular data center solutions that come in pre-configured and ready-to-deploy units. Container data centers can be deployed quickly and easily, without the need for construction or long lead times.
Container data centers are often used by businesses that need a temporary or “on-demand” data center solution. They can also be used to support specific applications or processes that require a high degree of flexibility.
Final Thought
Data centers come in a variety of shapes and sizes to meet the needs of different businesses. The type of data center you choose will depend on your specific requirements, such as the size and location of your facility, the applications you plan to run, and your budget.
Do some research and talk to experts to find the right data center solution for your business. With the right data center in place, you’ll be able to run your applications and services with confidence, knowing that your infrastructure is up to the task.
