Blog

The Pros and Cons of Colocation

Data Center Colocation

Most companies consider colocation as a way of cutting down on costs and maximizing space, power and physical security in their data centers Toronto. IT infrastructure can be expensive and colocation is one way to avoid spending money on new equipment. It’s even more costly when you think of managing the hardware and other resources in the premise.

Data center colocation presents a cost-effective way to offer physical security since your servers are protected from fires, power outages, floods and other disasters. Designers and builders of colocation centers aim at making sure the floor plan is designed to minimize damage in case of any of these events.

What’s colocation anyways?

Colocation is a way in which businesses store their own servers in a data center that is built for multiple customers. Instead of having their own data centers in their building, they seek a colocation provider where multiple businesses can run their servers from a remote location. Remember, each client is using a server of their own which comes with certain advantages and drawbacks.

Time and cost savings

When you share a data center with other businesses, you don’t need to spend on a custom build location. The facility invests in the best cooling towers, proper security and customized rack spaces as well as uninterrupted power. All these can be costly for the business that chooses to invest in data center construction. In case you need to transfer information among the servers, some colocation providers offer internal connectivity to simplify this process.

Reduce overall cost of IT management

One of the biggest advantages of colocation is that it helps to cut back on operation and management costs. With colocation, the business doesn’t have to invest in pricey HVAC units and other equipment. Colocation allows them to enjoy the services of an ideal data center environment that offers just what they need.

Avoid power capacity challenges

When the business wants to invest in IT applications that require high-density power, one of the main challenges is dealing with the increased power capacity. With colocation, you don’t have to worry about this or getting a backup in case of a power outage. Power infrastructure can be costly to invest in because you need it to ensure uninterrupted supply of power to your servers.

Flexibility

Additionally, a business may expand and use more applications which require additional bandwidth. Colocation is an affordable choice because you can simply upgrade to a better plan and enjoy business continuity. You can even gain access to some of the largest colocation providers in the world and benefit from an affordable and scalable IP network.

Avoid data breaches

There are more strict data regulations coming up every year. The penalties are also severe if your business experiences a data breach. Colocation can be one way to avoid such issues by using a provider who offers multiple layers of security including onsite 24/7 physical security.

However, colocation doesn’t offer you the flexibility to easily control your servers. Sometimes you need that peace of mind that you have control over security and access to your servers whenever you need it.