It’s a big decision to move mission-critical data, applications and systems to a Dallas colocation partner. When making this decision, companies have to choose between a retro-fit data center and a purpose-built data center. There are major differences between the two building types. Though they might look nearly identical on the inside, business owners must understand the true differences.
Purpose-Built Centers Explained
Some of the things that a purpose-built Dallas colocation facility can offer are:
- Purposely located outside of any disaster zones including flood plains, tornado paths or hurricane-prone areas
- Specially designed building made to operate within and withstand disaster situations
- Fully redundant systems with fail-safe backup procedures
- Correct fire suppression and prevention methods
- Support for future growth with regards to cooling, network and utilities
- Complete security
Purpose-built Dallas colocation facilities have been designed from the ground up to withstand the effects of natural disasters. Natural or manmade, these disasters can prevent a business from operating as necessary. Purpose-built colocation facilities were designed and constructed to withstand all types of disasters. In addition, they were constructed with future growth in mind. They are prepared for higher power and cooling system demands as server and network advances require more resources. From blueprint to ribbon-cutting, these facilities were planned to provide stable, reliable, solid management for their partners. They can’t be matched when it comes to offering colocation solutions that businesses need now and in the future.
Retro-Fit Centers Explained
In this economy, it is far cheaper to buy data infrastructure than it is to build it. With so many other larger corporations closing their doors, large, spacious buildings now stand empty. These provide a space for colocation centers to set up shop. Unfortunately, these retro-fit centers come with several problems. When a center is retro-fit, a colocation company will purchase a building and usually gut the inside. It then installs what is needed for networking, power and cooling solutions. These existing shells of buildings then host a data center and protect mission-critical data and solutions. This existing building is not created to data-center specifications and needs. It may not be built to withstand challenging environmental conditions. It may also not have a complete and up-to-date fire prevention and suppression system. Because the data center must be designed to fit within the building’s constraints, other aspects might also be limited. This includes, but is not restricted to, potential space for growth.
In Summary
When assessing Dallas colocation partners, it is a very important to consider these items. Computer environments are becoming larger and more complex. They are drawing more power and needing more sophisticated cooling methods. As a company grows, so will its equipment. A colocation partner should be poised and ready to grow with its clients as technology evolves. Purpose-built facilities are the best choice as far as potential growth and expansion goes.
John Wade writes about colocation services in the Dallas Area. He believes Dallas Colocation should be considered by any company looking for data security. Wade discusses the benefits of colocation and data centers for companies large and small. The Dallas Data Center he reccommends is further discussed at http://www.datafoundry.com
