Colocation, often referred to as “colo,” is a data center service that allows businesses to rent physical space for their own servers, networking equipment, and other hardware. Instead of operating and maintaining their data centers, organizations can colocate their infrastructure in a third-party data center facility. Colocation providers offer the necessary infrastructure, power, cooling, and network connectivity to host the servers and equipment of multiple customers.
In a colocation arrangement, customers retain full control over their hardware and data while benefiting from the data center’s robust infrastructure, security, redundancy, and connectivity. Colocation is commonly used by businesses that require greater control, customization, and security for their IT infrastructure, as well as those seeking to reduce the costs associated with maintaining their own data centers.
Evaluating Vendors of Colocation:
When Xaris Technology evaluates vendors for colocation services, we consider the following factors:
1. Location: Assess the geographic location of the colocation facility. It should be easily accessible to your staff and ideally located away from natural disaster-prone areas.
2. Facility and Infrastructure: Evaluate the data center’s physical security, power redundancy, cooling systems, fire suppression, and other infrastructure to ensure high availability and reliability.
3. Connectivity Options: Check the available network carriers and internet service providers (ISPs) in the facility. The data center should offer multiple carriers for redundancy and high-speed connectivity.
4. Scalability: Ensure that the colocation provider can accommodate your future growth and offer flexibility to add more rack space or resources as needed.
5. Security Measures: Examine the data center’s security protocols, access controls, surveillance systems, and certifications (e.g., SOC 2, ISO 27001) to safeguard your equipment and data.
6. Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Review the SLAs offered by the vendor, covering aspects like uptime guarantees, response times for support, and compensation for downtime.
7. Support and Remote Hands: Assess the level of support provided by the colocation provider. Remote hands services, which offer on-site assistance, can be crucial for troubleshooting and maintenance.
8. Cross-Connects: Check if the data center allows direct cross-connects with other customers or network providers, which can enhance performance and reduce latency.
9. Environmental Considerations: Verify the data center’s energy efficiency and environmental initiatives, as this can impact operating costs and your organization’s sustainability goals.
10. Backup and Disaster Recovery: Understand the vendor’s backup solutions and disaster recovery options to protect your data in case of emergencies.
11. Compliance and Certifications: Ensure that the data center is compliant with relevant industry regulations and holds certifications that align with your business needs.
12. Client Reviews and References: Seek feedback from current or previous customers of the colocation provider to understand their experiences and level of satisfaction.
13. Financial Stability: Consider the financial stability and reputation of the colocation vendor to ensure a reliable and long-term partnership.
By carefully evaluating these factors, Xaris Technology will help you choose a colocation provider that offers a secure, reliable, and scalable environment for your IT infrastructure, helping you focus on your core business activities without worrying about data center operations. Schedule a meeting with Xaris Technology today. Use the form on this page or call us at 888-58-Xaris / 888-589-2747