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Amid the swiftly developing digital world today, businesses demand a dependable data center partner more than ever, with an emphasis on reliability. In general, data centers are experts in protecting and maintaining data integrity, safety, and security. And one of the main services these enterprises offer is colocation. In a nutshell, colocation refers to the practice of housing privately-owned servers or other computing equipment in a data center facility that provides the necessary space, power, cooling, and connectivity.
All in all, finding the right data center partner to help navigate these challenges is critical to achieving long-term data success. But it can be quite difficult to achieve that as there are more than 8,000 data centers in the world.
We prepared a comprehensive guide to discuss six important things you need to consider when selecting a reliable data center partner for your enterprise.
Location
In today’s business world, downtime is unacceptable, and data centers must prioritize delivering minimal latency and maximum dependability. To achieve this, providers select optimal sites that offer ample space and power for efficient data centers, along with convenient access to extensive connectivity at a reasonable cost.
Some of these facilities are located outside of the city, allowing for effective disaster recovery measures while avoiding the high costs associated with city center operations. At the same time, they are located near enough to provide optimal application performance for both local and international enterprises.
If you are especially considering colocation, the distance between your company and the data center can impact the cost and performance of your colocation service. So, make sure that the colocation data center on your shortlist is reputable, offers high-speed solutions, and is close to your location. Failure to consider this could result in high latency and other performance issues that could compromise your business operations.
Credibility and Reputation
Speaking of reputability, choosing a data center partner with a strong track record of success and a good reputation in the industry is paramount. A credible data center partner will have experience with similar organizations, positive customer testimonials, and a history of reliable uptime. Research potential candidates thoroughly and ask for references to ensure your selected partner meets your needs.
Scalability and Flexibility
As your business grows, your data storage and management needs will evolve. A suitable data partner should be able to grow with your organization, offering scalable and customizable solutions that seamlessly accommodate your changing requirements.
This might involve options like pay-as-you-grow pricing models, flexible contract terms, or additional services tailored to the unique aspects of your business.
Expertise and Innovation
A forward-thinking data center partner will stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry insights. Look for providers who actively invest in R&D and the implementation of new technologies, such as AI-powered security systems, edge computing, or renewable energy sources.
A data center partner focusing on innovation can help future-proof your business by supporting the adoption of cutting-edge solutions.
Support and Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
A data center partner should offer top-notch customer support and service level agreements outlining operational standards and responsibilities. Look out for providers that offer 24/7 support, rapid response times, and guaranteed uptime. Review the SLAs and ensure they align with your business’s expectations and requirements.
Price
Selecting the right data center partner is crucial for any organization dependent on IT infrastructure. Although price should not be the only factor considered, it is still an important aspect, so it’s best to track whether the services you are employing are worthwhile.
This involves exploring not just the initial price tag, but also any long-term costs that may arise from the partnership. By thoroughly examining pricing structures, contract terms, and the potential for hidden fees, organizations can find the most cost-effective and reliable data center partner for their needs.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right data center partner is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of your specific needs and thorough research into available companies. Key aspects to consider include cost, scalability, reliability, security, and expertise. By conducting a thorough review and doing proper due diligence, you can find a partner that perfectly fits your IT infrastructure requirements.
It is crucial to evaluate potential partners based on their reliability, and the ability to provide knowledgeable staff working closely with you to achieve optimal results. Seeking recommendations from trustworthy contacts in the industry can also offer valuable insights before making a decision. Choosing the wrong partner could lead to significant downtime and quality assurance issues, resulting in substantial losses.
