A data centre is a facility where computer systems and their associated components are physically housed. Data centres include a backup power supply, redundant data communications connections, environmental (climate, etc.) controls, and security devices. Any business that relies upon a computer network and web-based applications can reasonably expect to require the use of a data centre. Some companies build their own data centres on their premises. Many other companies, (especially those with complex business functions that rely heavily on technology) elect to outsource their infrastructure and web hosting to a service that includes use of the vendor's data centre. The latter has several different benefits, including:



• Greater value with managed hosting options

• Better use of your time and resources

• Business continuity and quick responsiveness in disaster recovery situations

• Bonus added-value features

Shopping for a Data Centre

Once you've made the decision to outsource your hosting and data centre needs, you must start the grueling process of searching for a vendor. There are many different factors to consider when evaluating infrastructure-hosting vendors. Not the least of these factors is the actual data centre itself. Take the time to evaluate the data centre properly and make sure you are thorough about assessing if it will meet your organization's needs. Below are some guidelines to help get you started.

Identify Your Needs

It seems logical, right? Well, you would be surprised to learn how many IT managers search for outsourced data centre space or services without really taking stock of their data's physical needs. If you are a small or large company that doesn't quite transmit much data your needs will be much different than they would be for a huge online business that sees thousands of web transactions daily. Think about what your needs are before you start meeting with vendors.

Inspect the Facility

At the very least, good data centres must possess certain physical qualities and properties. When you first walk into a data centre, you may not find it to appear very interesting. Generally, you will see a large or small room (or it can be as large as an entire building) with row upon row of 19-inch rack cabinets, which contain (mostly) servers and some other communications or storage equipment.

You should confirm that backup power (at least one, but more is better) in the form of uninterruptable power supplies or diesel generators are present. In order to prevent power failure to any part of the system, you should confirm that all elements of the electrical system (including backup power) are fully duplicated.

The data centre should be carefully climate-controlled with air conditioning so that the temperature ranges from 20–25 °C (68–75 °F) and humidity ranges from 40–55%.

Physical security is a crucial component in a good data centre. Make sure physical access is restricted to selected staff and select a data centre that offers video camera surveillance and permanent security guards 24 hours a day.

Don't Forget About Service

Though there are many other considerations when inspecting data centre facilities, the most important ones are the redundant power supply, climate control, and security. You must consider, however, that the data centre is only part of a larger package. Don't forget to analyze all the aspects of the hosting solution you are considering. Talk to different vendors and try to get a sense of the value that's added to their overall service. If you can, try to speak with current and/or former clients of the hosting provider to ask questions about their experience with the service.