Data Centers
Data Centers
In the simplest of terms. a data center is any facility that houses centralized computer and telecommunications systems, It can be as small as a tiny server closet or a large standalone building with hundreds of thousands or even millions of square feet of space. Another option is a modular data center, a self-contained integrated unit often housed in a shipping container for portability and scalability.
A typical data center includes a variety of IT infrastructure, including servers to computing power, storage (either standalone devices or converged with the servers) and networking gear to connect the systems to the Internet or directly to an organization’s other systems.
A large data center also requires a variety of supporting systems in order to allow the IT infrastructure to function. For example, it needs an adequate power supply to provide enough electricity for the computers housed in the facility. in general, data centers are connected to the electrical grid, although some have their own on-site power generation. In addition. most data centers have backup power supplies, such as batteries and/or diesel generators. for use in case of an emergency.
Because all those servers generate a lot of heat, cooling is also a significant concern. Servers generally require moderate temperatures in order to function properly, so large data centers may need elaborate liquid- Or air-based cooling Systems in order to maintain the proper environment In addition. they often have
sophisticated fire suppression technology.
Data centers also need control centers •where staff can monitor the performance of the servers as well as the physical plant. They also often have security measures that strictly control access to the facility.