Tips
Tips
Data center design and facilities
-
How to understand advancements in modern data centers
Data center advancements are rapidly occurring with storage demand. Some advancements, like an increase in temperatures, are necessary for more sustainable data center operations. Continue Reading
-
Guide to lift-and-shift data center migration
The lift-and-shift approach moves an app and its data from one environment to another. Understanding the pros and cons can help a data center admin decide on proper strategies. Continue Reading
-
Importance of backup generator power for data centers
Data center generators are rarely run; however, they must go through regular testing and maintenance to ensure they work when a power outage occurs to prevent server downtime. Continue Reading
-
Sustainability benefits of cloud computing data centers
Cloud computing data centers use large amounts of electricity, but a main sustainability benefit is the cloud's large scale and ability to store more data. Continue Reading
-
An overview of containerized data centers and their benefits
The rise in digital information is causing a shortage in data center storage space. Containerized data centers can be for permanent or temporary use. Continue Reading
-
ISO 14644 cleanroom standards for data centers
There are regulated requirements to maintain data center equipment and functionality. ISO 14644 cleanroom standards lay out guidelines to keep data centers clean. Continue Reading
-
4 data center trends to watch in 2024
With rising demand for data space, companies must plan to expand their data centers in an eco-friendly way. 2024 data center trends have one main focus: sustainability. Continue Reading
-
How to manage data center water usage sustainably
Data centers use large amounts of water to maintain equipment. This consumption is causing water pollution and scarcity. Companies must start to release consumption reports. Continue Reading
-
Data center air quality: The air servers breathe
Monitor data center air quality to ensure best working conditions for equipment. Particulates and gaseous contaminants cause irreversible damage if you do not use proper filtration. Continue Reading
-
Modular data center vs. traditional: When to choose each
Organizations have two options for using a data center: modular or traditional. Before deciding, companies should know how much power and cost can come from each option. Continue Reading
-
Server room cleaning -- not a DIY project
Server room cleaning is crucial for maintaining the life span of equipment in the data center. This task involves professional help to minimize operation interruptions. Continue Reading
-
7 common data center migration challenges to avoid
Admins should consider seven common data center migration challenges upfront to save money, prevent data loss and avoid delays during the migration process. Continue Reading
-
Guide to data center migration types
Businesses that rely on physical and cloud storage need to use data migration to simplify their infrastructure and choose from three major types to accommodate specific needs. Continue Reading
-
Data center heat reuse: How to make the most of excess heat
Data center heat doesn't need to go to waste. As part of a sustainability strategy, explore ways to put the heat your data center produces to work, and consider heat reuse. Continue Reading
-
What is the best OS for Docker?
Admins that want to run Docker containers can choose from Linux distros, including Ubuntu Core, RancherOS and others. Compare options for Docker OSes. Continue Reading
-
Data center cooling challenges and how to solve them
Data centers that are not properly cooled can see equipment work inefficiently or become damaged. Learn some common cooling challenges and assess ways to solve them. Continue Reading
-
Data center tiers and why they matter for uptime
Organizations should consider data center tiers of colocation providers or for their own data centers based on their uptime needs. Examine the differences among the four tiers. Continue Reading
-
Explore Red Hat's bring-your-own-subscription model for RHEL
Many organizations use pay-as-you-go models with public cloud providers to run their Red Hat products in the cloud. Explore how bring-your-own-subscription differs. Continue Reading
-
Strategies to work toward data center decarbonization
Global temperatures are rising, and organizations can do their part by decarbonizing their data centers. Examine ways to cut back on data center carbon emissions. Continue Reading
-
Compare two Linux security modules: SELinux vs. AppArmor
Use SELinux or AppArmor to protect Linux servers, but examine the differences between them. AppArmor is easier to use but does not give admins as much control as SELinux. Continue Reading
-
Data center redundancy: The basics
Downtime can cost businesses thousands, and redundancy is one way to minimize disruptions. Assess uptime requirements when building redundancy in data center facilities. Continue Reading
-
Differences between Green Globes vs. LEED for data centers
Consider Green Globes and LEED certifications when building green data centers. Learn the differences in how the assessments are done, the costs and documentation needs. Continue Reading
-
6 data center migration best practices
Data center migrations can be a complex process. Use best practices when migrating a data center to ensure maximum uptime, avoid data loss and stay on schedule. Continue Reading
-
Navigate Energy Star data center standard and certification
Organizations can use the Energy Star data center standard and certified assets to be more energy efficient. Consider Energy Star certification to preserve capital and save energy. Continue Reading
-
Examine the benefits of data center consolidation
Many data centers have too many assets. Data center consolidation can help organizations make better use of assets, cut costs, and improve security and compliance. Continue Reading
-
ASHRAE standard 90.4 updates emphasize green energy
New addenda to ASHRAE 90.4 simplify mechanical load component calculations and modify the definition of UPS, among other changes. Use the updates to guide green data center design. Continue Reading
-
8 green computing best practices
As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, these sustainability best practices can help your data center go greener, which benefits both your business and the environment. Continue Reading
-
A primer on hyperscale data centers
Hyperscale data centers can hold thousands of servers and process much more data than an enterprise facility. However, they can be difficult to build and maintain. Continue Reading
-
Explore 7 future potential quantum computing uses
Organizations stand to benefit from the compute power of quantum computing as it develops. The tech has potential uses in supply chains, financial modeling and other areas. Continue Reading
-
Use ISO 50001:2018 as a guide for green data centers
Data centers use a lot of energy, and it can be difficult to navigate how to reduce energy use. ISO 50001:2018 provides guidance to create energy-saving plans and use targets. Continue Reading
-
Learn different data lake vs. data warehouse uses
Data lakes and data warehouses both store big data. When choosing a lake or warehouse, consider factors such as cost and what insights or analytics you need to gain from the data. Continue Reading
-
Classical vs. quantum computing: What are the differences?
Classical and quantum computers have many differences in their compute capabilities and operational traits. Know their differences to help prepare data centers. Continue Reading
-
Key differences between BICSI and TIA/EIA standards
Data center standards help organizations design facilities for efficiency and safety. Organizations can use BICSI and TIA standards as guidance for data center design. Continue Reading
-
Use NFPA data center standards to help evade fire risks
A fire in a data center can damage equipment, cause data loss and put personnel in harm's way. Look to NFPA fire protection guidelines to hedge your risk against data center fires. Continue Reading
-
Learn what SDN data center controllers do in a network
In a software-defined network, SDN data center controllers are a crucial component. Consider factors such as performance and compatibility when examining controller options. Continue Reading
-
Include VXLANs in data centers for quicker network speeds
VXLANs add network isolation and enable organizations to scale data center networks more efficiently. Consider VXLANs to expand a data center network and improve performance. Continue Reading
-
Best practices for data center network optimization
Data center network optimization can improve business impact and promote long-term equipment health. Look to pilot new equipment, consolidate servers and improve energy efficiency. Continue Reading
-
Tips to build a data center airflow management strategy
Airflow in data centers is crucial for equipment health. While the hot aisle/cold aisle is popular, examine other options like side-to-side airflow and top-of-rack switches. Continue Reading
-
The implications of blockchain in the chip shortage
Blockchain has been a significant contributor to the global chip shortage. Explore the role this rising technology has played. Continue Reading
-
Evaluate 5G networks vs. 4G for data centers
5G networking requires organizations and data centers to support IoT, while 4G requires increased machinery. Learn more about the differences between 5G and 4G for data centers. Continue Reading
-
Explore liquid cooling for data centers
Discover the different classifications of liquid cooling -- such as direct-to-chip, liquid immersion or rear-door heat exchangers -- before adopting it in your data center. Continue Reading
-
Data center cooling systems and technologies and how they work
Extreme heat and cold can keep equipment from operating at peak efficiency. Explore cost-efficient and cost-effective cooling technologies and smart options for your facility. Continue Reading
-
6 ways to increase energy efficiency in data centers
Although there is no one single trick that admins can use to achieve an energy-efficient data center, there are several small things that can significantly decrease energy use. Continue Reading
-
Data center temperature and humidity guidelines
ASHRAE maintains a recommended list of humidity and temperature level standards for data centers. Discover how to keep your data center environment in tiptop shape. Continue Reading
-
How to calculate data center cooling requirements
Data center cooling requirements are affected by several factors, including the equipment's heat output, the floor area, facility design and electrical system power rating. Continue Reading
-
How much energy do data centers consume?
High energy consumption continues to be an issue in the data center, but organizations are moving to energy-efficient systems to manage and reduce their power usage. Continue Reading
-
How 5G affects data centers and how to prepare
Data centers can prepare for the rise of 5G networking by understanding how it functions, upgrading crucial infrastructure and understanding how 5G networks can benefit them. Continue Reading
-
Data center safety tips to protect staff
Safety in the data center requires organizations to identify and address a variety of risk factors, from electrical systems to staff illness. Continue Reading
-
Key data center trends in 2022
In 2022, data centers will introduce a variety of new technologies. Expect a focus on hybrid cloud, solid-state storage, DCIM and sustainability measures. Continue Reading
-
What to know about data center fire protection
Protect your data center from potential fire hazards through proper mitigation, detection and suppression. Then, create a plan for recovery in the event of a fire. Continue Reading
-
Create data center electrical safety guidelines
Compose a comprehensive electrical safety strategy and keep your data center staff safe from electrical hazards. Learn what best practices and standards you should consider. Continue Reading
-
Foster health and safety in the post-pandemic data center
Data centers adapted to a new set of circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. As work and the pandemic continue to change, here's how data centers can continue to evolve. Continue Reading
-
Best practices for data center risk assessment
Data centers contain risks such as height, environmental and electrical hazards. Keep your staff safe by assessing the level of risk and creating a comprehensive safety plan. Continue Reading
-
Considerations for sustainable data center design
To design a green, sustainable data center, consider methods to improve energy conservation and efficiency. Then, look into green -- or greener -- energy source alternatives. Continue Reading
-
Pros and cons of on-site power generation for data centers
Organizations considering a move to on-site power generation should weigh drawbacks -- such as cost -- against benefits, including sustainability and increased control over power. Continue Reading
-
Evaluate air cooling vs. liquid cooling for your data center
Air cooling and liquid cooling for data centers offer different benefits and drawbacks. To decide which best suits your organization, consider the pros and cons of each. Continue Reading
-
Learn the difference between SMP vs. MPP
Learn the differences between the main modes of multiprocessing: SMP, AMP and MPP. Each has a distinct use case that makes it suited for different data centers and organizations. Continue Reading
-
Data center facility management team-building checklist
A good data center facilities team and strategy can ensure the rest of your company runs smoothly. Here are the steps you should take when putting that team together. Continue Reading
-
Explore hot and cold aisle containment for your data center
Explore hot aisle and cold aisle containment for the data center, a practice that can reduce energy costs by helping better manage environmental factors. Continue Reading
-
Data center contactless tech beyond the pandemic
No-touch tech like haptics and LiDAR became commonplace during the coronavirus pandemic, but such technology can increase demands on the data centers supporting it. Continue Reading
-
What does a data center facility manager do?
Data center facility managers are responsible for the data center at large -- from the outside of the building to the infrastructure it houses. Continue Reading
-
Does your data center need a smart PDU?
A smart PDU can help you monitor and manage power flow more efficiently than a traditional PDU. Here's what you should consider before deciding whether to adopt. Continue Reading
-
Learn about ambient temperature sensors for data centers
Ambient temperature sensors can help you keep track of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and airflow in your data center so you can avoid downtime. Continue Reading
-
Nvidia vs. AMD: Compare GPU offerings
Chip vendors Nvidia and AMD each offer GPUs optimized for large data centers. Compare the two to decide which best suits your business requirements. Continue Reading
-
CRAC design upgrades simplify HVAC maintenance
CRAC/CRAH hardware updates make data center cooling more efficient. And these new systems are easier for admins to maintain and they reduce dust accumulation across infrastructure. Continue Reading
-
Get a template to estimate server power consumption per rack
Admins can struggle with power consumption estimation as infrastructure gets more complex. The kW-per-rack metric can help provide an accurate calculation of server power use. Continue Reading
-
Software-defined power offers benefits, but lacks popular interest
Virtualized power systems promise to ease deployment and maintenance, but the market is still in its nascency. Continue Reading
-
Take control of Hyper-V power management for cost efficiency
Organizations can better manage Hyper-V power consumption through various means, such as using Hyper-V power plans, server cores and SCVMM capabilities. Continue Reading
-
Pick a data center layout: Raised floors vs. overhead cabling
There's no definitive design when it comes to data center infrastructure. Cost, manageability and cooling effectiveness are all factors during the selection process. Continue Reading
-
A guide to data center maintenance outsourcing
Data centers have a lot of moving mechanical parts to maintain. It's beneficial to leave electrical and fire system upkeep to the professionals instead of doing it all in-house. Continue Reading
-
Get eco-friendly with LEED data center certification
The U.S. Green Building Council helps companies make existing and new data centers eco-friendly. HVAC, lighting and monitoring technology help increase infrastructure efficiency. Continue Reading
-
A quick guide to data center commissioning
Service provider selection, design documentation and thorough testing are all necessary for commissioning. Learn the process's nuances to get your facilities online. Continue Reading
-
Data center cooling systems advance, incorporate natural sources
Despite concerns around water-based cooling technology, organizations are developing new hardware setups that rely on fjords and oceans to effectively cool dense server racks. Continue Reading
-
Streamline data center power usage tracking with DCIM
If you want a more in-depth picture of your data center's power consumption, explore DCIM options that provide server workload metrics and overall power system data. Continue Reading
-
How to realize server virtualization energy savings
Virtualizing servers is one of the most effective steps to reduce energy consumption, especially when the hypervisor and VM placement are taken into account. Continue Reading
-
Streamline data center ops by adding functionality to your DCIM tool
Once you've successfully set up DCIM software, it's important to evaluate what further capabilities you need and the ways you can improve data center planning. Continue Reading
-
What should my dimensions be for a data center building design?
Don't get hung up on data center dimensions in the design phase. Focus on length-to-width ratios to get the most out of data center space, power and cooling. Continue Reading
-
Build a data center shutdown procedure to prepare for the worst
A data center shutdown checklist helps IT teams focus on backup, testing and system verification before pulling the plug and losing valuable information. Continue Reading
-
Construct a winning data center project plan
Before embarking on new data center projects, such as an upgrade or move to the cloud, clearly define all goals and expectations -- and not just for IT. Continue Reading
-
Data center humidity recommendation falls dramatically
An ASHRAE study's conclusions are disproving the conventional wisdom around data centers' relative humidity levels. Continue Reading
-
Take data center efficiency to the max on three-phase power
Three-phase circuits provide considerably more power efficiency to data center equipment, but phase balancing can trip up deployments. Continue Reading
-
In-rack and in-row cooling options for any data center
Say no to CRAC and consider more selective data center cooling options. In-rack and in-row cooling systems are efficient and optimally dispel heat. Continue Reading
-
Does data center size matter in virtualization, DCIM decisions?
Are you big enough to take advantage of DCIM or virtualization for the power and cost savings? When it comes to certain moves, size is an advantage. Continue Reading
-
Major changes in data center fire suppression standards NFPA 75 and 76
Fire standard changes can add a lot of work and expense to a data center operator's job, but the updates to NFPA 75 and 76 address real safety risks. Continue Reading
-
Physical building properties to evaluate during server room design
Does your server room have space to grow? What's the best mechanical system for it? Start with these questions to develop a good server room design. Continue Reading
-
Three questions on ASHRAE standards for data centers
Evolving ASHRAE standards for temperature and humidity allow data center owners to save money on power and cooling demands. Continue Reading
-
Does UPS maintenance go to IT or the facilities management team?
The UPS is the last line of defense for keeping your data center alive, but does its care fall to the facilities management team or IT? Continue Reading
-
Five questions on data center environmental monitoring
Our expert explains how to maintain ideal conditions for your server room using data center environmental monitoring tools and techniques. Continue Reading
-
Avoiding single point of failure design flaws
Redundancy can help a data center avoid downtime, but sometimes hidden flaws in the electrical design can still create a single point of failure. Continue Reading
-
Best practices for maintaining a data center CRAC unit
A CRAC unit failure could often have been avoided through preventive maintenance and correctly sizing cooling infrastructure. Continue Reading
-
Considering a raised floor in the data center
Tile material, strength and durability are important factors to consider when selecting and installing a raised floor in a data center. Continue Reading
-
Selecting raised floors, panels for the data center
Choosing raised floor panels capable of supporting the weight of data center equipment cabinets requires taking a close look at strength ratings and manufacturers’ claims. Continue Reading
-
Data center design standards for cabinet and floor loading
The weight of today’s racks and equipment cabinets can stress floor structures, making it crucial to consider floor loading requirements in your data center design. Continue Reading
-
Best practices for backup power maintenance
Testing generators and inspecting batteries are just part of maintaining a backup power system that can help prevent unexpected data center downtime. Continue Reading
-
Using DCIM tools to monitor data center power
Although DCIM tools include many capabilities for monitoring data center power and facilitating data center management, you should know their associated costs before implementing projects. Continue Reading
-
Calculating carbon emissions in the data center
While data center carbon measurement is in its infancy and lacks hard standards, it still may benefit IT admins to know basic methods for calculating carbon emissions as carbon legislation begins impacting data centers. Continue Reading
-
Bus track and busway power distribution: Power anywhere?
Bus track and busway power distribution in the data center is a growing trend that allows for greater flexibility and accommodation of rising power densities. This in-depth exploration of bus-type power systems will help you decide whether this is a... Continue Reading
-
Sizing computer room air conditioners for data center energy efficiency
Choosing a right-sized computer room air conditioner (CRAC) is crucial to data center energy efficiency, but there are many variables to consider. Learn more about data center air conditioning design, maintaining humidity levels and temperature, and... Continue Reading
-
How to choose the right uninterruptible power supply for your data center
This tip discusses how to choose the right-sized uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for your data center. It also explains common mistakes in UPS sizing and why UPS power ratings can be so confusing. Continue Reading
-
Avoid common pitfalls when calculating data center power load
For data center pros trying to size an air conditioning system or UPS, accurately estimating data center power load is critical. But there are many common pitfalls to avoid. Continue Reading