Things You Should Know About Data Centers
Data centers are physical or virtual networks of servers that store and share data through networking equipment. These servers contain memory, storage space and processors, but they use software to share their data and workload.
Human Resources
Those who work in data centers have typically completed at least one data center operations training course. In addition, staff members must learn to manage different types of hardware components, especially as data centers change and adapt to future demands. These employees must learn to develop solutions in environments with constantly evolving technology. Although automation may handle some of these duties in the future, the ability to manipulate and manage this software will be necessary, which may result in necessary retraining.
Decentralization
Decentralization may occur if a company does not have employees with the knowledge necessary to run every part of the data center. Although some operations may remain in-house, others may be spread throughout other facilities or companies. Decentralization also allows remote workers to handle emergencies, reducing downtime.
Although cloud computing can be used to streamline these operations, it also decentralizes it. However, the reduced infrastructure and server requirements increase efficiency and lower cost, which are definite benefits of cloud computing.
Customization
Data centers are typically filled with physical assets, such as network equipment, computer hardware, security systems and software or applications as well as power management equipment.
Data centers will also have different backup capabilities and redundancies, which should prevent data loss. However, the uninterruptible power supply system and fault tolerance and high availability strategies because these systems will have a direct effect on the company’s backup capabilities.
If you are using a data center outside your company, pay close attention to the service level agreement, which will allow you to further customize your services. Because this is a legally binding agreement, it will outline penalties for a data center’s failure to meet the contract terms, such as the reliability level and down time percentage.
Security
The more decentralized your data center operations become, the greater your security risk. For example, bandwidth demands expand as traffic grows, requiring the addition of new remote devices or new infrastructure.
If your company is using a cloud-based system, you are trusting a third party to secure your data. Therefore, analyze each location’s security protocols and the employees’ credentials to ensure your data will be protected.
Whether you are planning to develop an in-house data center or using a cloud-based system, you should understand the advantages and disadvantages of each. You may consider using cloud-based systems until your center and employees are up to speed.