Editor's note
Data center colocation services provide organizations a streamlined way to expand processing capabilities and grow their facilities without building everything from the ground up.
A main use case for colocation is data backup, but these services also are effective at reducing -- or eliminating -- capital expenditures associated with a data center facility. As with any service contract selection, there must be a certain amount of research and negotiation to ensure comprehensive support and continuous uptime.
This essential guide to data center colocation services offers information on site evaluation and contract bargaining so any IT department can select the best provider at the right cost.
1Is colocation the right choice?
Colocation is an effective way to expand any organization's data center. It not only offers managers more hardware resources, it alleviates the stress of facility management. But with the variety of data center expansion options available today, colocation might not always be the correct choice. Learn about the use cases and common configurations for data center colocation and what services are often included.
-
Article
Colocation vs. cloud: Quiz yourself on these workload expansion options
Colocation or cloud? Data centers have plenty of expansion options beyond building a new facility. Learn about each option -- and test your knowledge -- with this quiz. Read Now
-
Article
Should my organization consider systems management services?
IT staff have a lot on their plate, so outsourcing systems management to a third party might be appealing. But organizations must choose a reputable provider that meets their needs. Read Now
2Generate a rock-solid colocation setup
When selecting data center colocation services, an organization should evaluate multiple locations, figure out the use case for the hardware and determine what level of access IT staff members need. This information can help contract negotiations with service providers and ensure that all components -- and tasks -- are covered by the proper parties.
-
Article
What's the difference between SLO vs. SLA?
Often used interchangeably, the terms SLO and SLA are not the same. Find out the key attributes of each and why each is important for managing service providers. Read Now
-
Article
A guide to IaaS provider selection
Adding a cloud infrastructure service requires proper evaluation procedures and research. For a smooth transition, assess VM shapes, developer skill sets, licensing and security. Read Now
-
Article
Pick the right colocation site for your organization
Colocation is more than signing a contract and installing hardware. Evaluate redundancy, rack space real estate and distance to ensure a successful colo partnership. Read Now