The Role of Data Centers in Facilitating Remote Work

Remote work looks very much like it is here not just to stay but to grow. This means that organizations will need to adapt to a (relatively) new way of working. Part of this will involve updating their data centers. With that in mind, here is a quick guide on the role of data centers in facilitating remote working.

Impact of remote work trends

According to a recent study, remote working grew “five-fold from 2019 to 2023, with 40% of US employees now working remotely at least one day a week.”. This is in addition to the ever-growing number of mobile workers. These are technically on-site workers. Practically, however, their needs are often more similar to remote workers than to static, on-site workers.

With that said, even static, on-site workers are increasingly likely to have similar needs to remote and/or hybrid workers. Firstly, they may be working with remote colleagues. Secondly, they are almost certainly replacing business travel with videoconferences and online events.

Ultimately, therefore, even organizations that do not think of themselves as being on the remote-work train are likely to need to implement the infrastructure to support it. In particular, they are going to need the capability to handle significant volumes of data. Moreover, the data types they will need to handle are likely to be very diverse.

Infrastructure requirements

Implementing a future-forward style of work requires future-forward infrastructure. Here are 7 infrastructure requirements that are key to supporting a remote work-friendly environment:

Robust bandwidth and network redundancy: Remote work hinges on smooth connectivity. Enhanced bandwidth and network redundancy are crucial to manage the upsurge in data traffic. A robust network infrastructure prevents bottlenecks, minimizes latency, and ensures uninterrupted communication and data flow, fostering a seamless remote work experience.

Advanced processing technologies: The shift to remote work introduces heightened demands for processing power. Incorporating advanced processing technologies, such as high-performance processors and accelerators, is essential to handle increased computational loads efficiently. This ensures that remote employees can access and process data swiftly without encountering performance issues.

High-performance storage solutions: Remote work entails a significant increase in data storage needs. Implementing high-performance storage solutions, including scalable and fast-access storage systems, is critical. This addresses the growing volumes of data generated by remote workers and supports efficient data retrieval and sharing.

Remote monitoring and management tools: Even in an on-site environment, remote monitoring and management tools are hugely valuable (and convenient). They enforce security policies, optimize network and endpoint performance, and enable fast and simple issue resolution. When dealing with remote workers, these tools are essential for creating and maintaining a seamless and secure working environment.

Comprehensive security solutions (network and endpoint): In addition to securing the core network, organizations must secure the connection between the remote user and the network. Currently, this typically means implementing a VPN, preferably a very user-friendly one. Furthermore, organizations will need robust security for all remote endpoints.

Distributed computing infrastructure: Enabling a distributed computing infrastructure ensures that processing capabilities are strategically distributed. It therefore promotes efficiency and minimizes latency. This architecture supports remote work scenarios by optimizing computational resources based on geographic proximity to end-users.

Scalable architecture: The dynamic nature of remote work necessitates a scalable architecture that can easily adapt to changing workloads. Scalability ensures that the data center can efficiently handle fluctuations in demand. It therefore promotes flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Security considerations

New ways of working bring new security considerations. Here are the five key security considerations you must keep in mind when supporting remote workers.

Data privacy and protection: Implementing remote work is likely to require organizations to update their data privacy and security measures. In particular, they will need to think about ensuring the safety of an increased volume of data in transit. Organizations that need to comply with established data security standards (e.g. PCI/DSS) need to ensure that they continue to be upheld.

Endpoint security: With remote work relying heavily on endpoints, securing these devices becomes a critical focus. Data centers must employ advanced endpoint security solutions, including antivirus software, firewalls, and regular updates. Implementing strategies like endpoint detection and response (EDR) enhances threat visibility and mitigates risks associated with potential endpoint vulnerabilities.

Network security: Implementing remote working has the potential to expose any weaknesses in network security. Organizations therefore need to commit to continually assessing their network security and updating it so that it remains as robust as possible. This will have financial implications and these will need to be incorporated in budgeting decisions.

Incident response and recovery: Data centers need streamlined processes to detect, analyze, and respond to security breaches promptly. This involves real-time monitoring tools, automated response mechanisms, and a well-defined recovery strategy. A swift and efficient response minimizes the impact of security incidents on remote work operations.

Security audits and compliance: Audits assess the effectiveness of security measures, identify potential weaknesses, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Related Resources:

Managed Services for Remote Workforce: Empowering Your Team

The Evolution Of Data Center Technologies: Past, Present, And Future