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Managed Colocation Services: An Overview

Managed Colocation Services: An Overview


Managed colocation services are a popular option for businesses looking to outsource their data center infrastructure. With managed colocation, a third-party provider offers the physical space, power, cooling, and network connectivity needed to host IT equipment. This article will explore the benefits of managed colocation services, as well as key considerations when choosing a provider.

What are managed colocation services?

Colocation is a service that allows businesses to rent space in a third-party data center to house their servers, storage devices, and networking equipment. This arrangement provides several benefits, including reduced costs, increased security, and improved reliability.

Overview of managed colocation

Managed colocation services provide businesses with additional management and support services beyond the basic colocation model. With managed colocation, the provider assumes responsibility for managing the physical infrastructure, including power, cooling, security, and network connectivity. This enables businesses to focus on their core operations and not worry about maintaining their IT infrastructure.

Differences between traditional colocation and managed colocation

One key difference between traditional colocation and managed colocation services is the level of management provided. With traditional colocation, the provider simply provides the space, power, and connectivity needed to house IT equipment. The customer is responsible for the management of their own equipment, including the installation, maintenance, and repair of servers and other hardware.

In contrast, managed colocation providers take on a greater level of responsibility for the management of the IT infrastructure. This can include services such as server installation and configuration, hardware maintenance, and software updates. In addition, managed colocation providers often offer additional services such as security monitoring, disaster recovery, and 24/7 technical support.

Benefits of managed colocation services

Managed colocation services offer several benefits to businesses, including cost savings, increased security, improved uptime, access to expert support, and scalability.

Cost savings

Managed colocation services can be more cost-effective than maintaining an in-house data center. By outsourcing the management and maintenance of their IT infrastructure, businesses can avoid the upfront costs of building and equipping their own data center. In addition, managed colocation providers typically offer flexible pricing models, allowing businesses to pay only for the resources they need.

Increased security

Managed colocation providers have robust physical security measures in place to protect their customers’ IT infrastructure. This can include features such as biometric access controls, CCTV surveillance, and 24/7 security staff. In addition, managed colocation providers often have redundant power and cooling systems to ensure that IT equipment stays up and running in the event of a power outage or other disruption.

Improved uptime

Managed colocation providers typically have higher levels of uptime than in-house data centers. This is because they have redundant power and cooling systems, as well as multiple internet service providers (ISPs) for network connectivity. In addition, managed colocation providers often have disaster recovery plans in place to ensure that their customers’ IT infrastructure remains available in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency.

Access to expert support

Businesses that lack the in-house expertise to manage their own IT infrastructure can benefit from managed colocation providers, who offer access to expert support teams that can provide assistance with the installation, maintenance, and repair of IT equipment. Moreover, managed colocation providers often offer 24/7 technical support, enabling businesses to resolve any issues swiftly.

Scalability

With managed colocation services, businesses have the flexibility to adjust their IT infrastructure according to their evolving needs. Managed colocation providers offer a range of resources, from basic server hosting to fully managed IT services, which can be scaled up or down as necessary. This allows businesses to accommodate growth without the need to build out their own data center, giving them greater flexibility and cost savings.

How to choose a managed colocation provider

These are the five key points you should consider when choosing a managed colocation services provider.

Reputation and track record

It’s important to look for providers with a proven track record of reliability, security, and customer satisfaction. Businesses should read online reviews and ask for references from current customers to gain a better understanding of the provider’s experience.

Location and connectivity

Providers with data centers located in secure and easily accessible locations with good connectivity to major internet service providers should be preferred. This will ensure that businesses’ IT infrastructure is easily accessible and reliable.

Service level agreements (SLAs)

Businesses should review the SLAs offered by providers and choose one that is tailored to their specific needs. Providers that offer guarantees for uptime, performance, and security are preferable.

Flexibility and customization

Providers that offer flexibility and customization options are preferred. This allows businesses to select the services most relevant to their needs. Custom configurations, private networking, and cloud integration are examples of services that may be available.

Support and customer service

Providers that offer 24/7 support and have a dedicated support team that is knowledgeable and responsive should be preferred. Additionally, transparent communication is essential, so businesses always know what’s happening with their IT infrastructure.

Read More:

What You Should Consider When Looking At Colocation Remote Hands Services

What You Need To Know About Colocation – Advantages And Disadvantages

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