Data center design and facilities

Data center design includes continuous power and cooling for IT equipment, site security and energy use. Data center facilities are specialized for a task and must operate in concert with the IT organization. New trends in data center design and construction include modular and containerized builds, as well as DCIM to track energy use.

Top Stories

Opinion 27 Jun 2023
Reimaging, innovating, securing cloud-native at SUSECON 2023

At SUSECON 2023, SUSE announced cloud-native AI-based observability with Opni and alluded to more announcements this year. Leaders emphasized cloud-native tech and modernization. Continue Reading
Tip 20 Jun 2023
Data center tiers and why they matter for uptime

Organizations should consider data center tiers of colocation providers or for their own data centers based on their uptime needs. Examine the differences among the four tiers. Continue Reading

Tip 19 Jun 2023

Explore Red Hat's bring-your-own-subscription model for RHEL

Many organizations use pay-as-you-go models with public cloud providers to run their Red Hat products in the cloud. Explore how bring-your-own-subscription differs. Continue Reading
Tip 07 Jun 2023

Strategies to work toward data center decarbonization

Global temperatures are rising, and organizations can do their part by decarbonizing their data centers. Examine ways to cut back on data center carbon emissions. Continue Reading
Tip 06 Jun 2023

Compare two Linux security modules: SELinux vs. AppArmor

Use SELinux or AppArmor to protect Linux servers, but examine the differences between them. AppArmor is easier to use but does not give admins as much control as SELinux. Continue Reading
Tip 01 Jun 2023

Data center redundancy: The basics

Downtime can cost businesses thousands, and redundancy is one way to minimize disruptions. Assess uptime requirements when building redundancy in data center facilities. Continue Reading
Tip 31 May 2023

Modular network design benefits and approaches

Modular network design is a strategic way for enterprises to group network building blocks in order to streamline network maintenance, additions and troubleshooting. Continue Reading
Tip 25 May 2023

Differences between Green Globes vs. LEED for data centers

Consider Green Globes and LEED certifications when building green data centers. Learn the differences in how the assessments are done, the costs and documentation needs. Continue Reading
Tip 24 May 2023

6 data center migration best practices

Data center migrations can be a complex process. Use best practices when migrating a data center to ensure maximum uptime, avoid data loss and stay on schedule. Continue Reading
Tip 22 May 2023

Navigate Energy Star data center standard and certification

Organizations can use the Energy Star data center standard and certified assets to be more energy efficient. Consider Energy Star certification to preserve capital and save energy. Continue Reading
Feature 12 May 2023

Explore the impact of quantum computing on cryptography

When quantum computers become available, lots of encryption types will be vulnerable. Learn why, and what's being researched, to navigate post-quantum cryptography. Continue Reading
Feature 08 May 2023

10 companies building quantum computers

Many companies big and small are building quantum computing capabilities in the software and hardware space. Here's what some offer and what they're building for the future. Continue Reading
Tutorial 27 Apr 2023

How to install Cockpit for Linux

Linux admins will need to use some of these commands to install Cockpit and configure firewalls. Admins can also connect to one or more servers through Cockpit via these steps. Continue Reading
Tip 25 Apr 2023

Examine the benefits of data center consolidation

Many data centers have too many assets. Data center consolidation can help organizations make better use of assets, cut costs, and improve security and compliance. Continue Reading
Opinion 20 Mar 2023

App modernization, mainframe, microservices: IBM event recap

At the recent IBM Infrastructure Analyst Event, IBM announced advances in IBM zSystems for AI, app architecture and other areas to help businesses achieve their goals. Continue Reading
Feature 20 Mar 2023

Will data centers become obsolete?

Many organizations want to simplify or scale down their data centers -- but they won't disappear. Admins can examine as-a-service options and cloud to offload some applications. Continue Reading
Tip 15 Mar 2023

ASHRAE standard 90.4 updates emphasize green energy

New addenda to ASHRAE 90.4 simplify mechanical load component calculations and modify the definition of UPS, among other changes. Use the updates to guide green data center design. Continue Reading
Tip 14 Mar 2023

8 green computing best practices

As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, these sustainability best practices can help your data center go greener, which benefits both your business and the environment. Continue Reading
Tip 24 Feb 2023

A primer on hyperscale data centers

Hyperscale data centers can hold thousands of servers and process much more data than an enterprise facility. However, they can be difficult to build and maintain. Continue Reading
News 16 Feb 2023

IBM drops from top spot in patents, surpassed by Samsung

IBM lost its title as patent king to Samsung, which had more than 8,500 patents approved in 2022. One reason cited is IBM's transformation to a software and services company. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Feb 2023

Explore 7 future potential quantum computing uses

Organizations stand to benefit from the compute power of quantum computing as it develops. The tech has potential uses in supply chains, financial modeling and other areas. Continue Reading
Tip 25 Jan 2023

Use ISO 50001:2018 as a guide for green data centers

Data centers use a lot of energy, and it can be difficult to navigate how to reduce energy use. ISO 50001:2018 provides guidance to create energy-saving plans and use targets. Continue Reading
Feature 10 Jan 2023

Data center environmental controls a high priority for admins

More data growth and tightening financial conditions are coming. Protect data center assets in 2023 through environmental controls like cooling, humidity and others. Continue Reading
Tip 16 Dec 2022

Learn different data lake vs. data warehouse uses

Data lakes and data warehouses both store big data. When choosing a lake or warehouse, consider factors such as cost and what insights or analytics you need to gain from the data. Continue Reading
Tip 14 Dec 2022

Classical vs. quantum computing: What are the differences?

Classical and quantum computers have many differences in their compute capabilities and operational traits. Know their differences to help prepare data centers. Continue Reading
Feature 09 Dec 2022

Top 5 colocation providers of 2023

Colocation companies offer a wide range of facilities and services that can help organizations reduce or eliminate the costs associated with managing their data centers. Continue Reading
Tip 08 Dec 2022

Key differences between BICSI and TIA/EIA standards

Data center standards help organizations design facilities for efficiency and safety. Organizations can use BICSI and TIA standards as guidance for data center design. Continue Reading
Feature 08 Dec 2022

Top data center infrastructure management software in 2023

DCIM tools can improve data center management and operation. Learn how six prominent products can help organizations control costs, manage energy and track assets. Continue Reading
Tip 05 Dec 2022

Use NFPA data center standards to help evade fire risks

A fire in a data center can damage equipment, cause data loss and put personnel in harm's way. Look to NFPA fire protection guidelines to hedge your risk against data center fires. Continue Reading
Tip 28 Nov 2022

Learn what SDN data center controllers do in a network

In a software-defined network, SDN data center controllers are a crucial component. Consider factors such as performance and compatibility when examining controller options. Continue Reading
Tip 07 Nov 2022

Include VXLANs in data centers for quicker network speeds

VXLANs add network isolation and enable organizations to scale data center networks more efficiently. Consider VXLANs to expand a data center network and improve performance. Continue Reading
Tip 24 Oct 2022

Best practices for data center network optimization

Data center network optimization can improve business impact and promote long-term equipment health. Look to pilot new equipment, consolidate servers and improve energy efficiency. Continue Reading
Tip 21 Oct 2022

Tips to build a data center airflow management strategy

Airflow in data centers is crucial for equipment health. While the hot aisle/cold aisle is popular, examine other options like side-to-side airflow and top-of-rack switches. Continue Reading
Tutorial 22 Aug 2022

How to implement file classification in file servers

File classification with File Server Resource Manager enables admins to classify and organize data. This tutorial shows how to implement and manage file classifications. Continue Reading
Tip 29 Jul 2022

The implications of blockchain in the chip shortage

Blockchain has been a significant contributor to the global chip shortage. Explore the role this rising technology has played. Continue Reading
News 28 Jul 2022

House sends CHIPS Act to Biden's desk

Congress approved the CHIPS Act and billions more for scientific research to help the U.S. better compete against China in technology markets. Continue Reading
News 22 Jul 2022

CHIPS Act takes step forward on long road to production

If Congress approves the CHIPS Act, it will funnel billions into domestic chip production and provide companies like Intel and TSMC with tax breaks to build U.S. facilities. Continue Reading
Opinion 24 May 2022

Key takeaways from Red Hat Summit 2022

At Red Hat's 2022 Red Hat Summit, the organization announced changes to edge strategy, Linux admin skill gaps and hardware and software modernization. Continue Reading
Feature 18 May 2022

How to design and build a data center

Designing an efficient data center is no small feat. Review data center facility and infrastructure components and different standards before you begin. Continue Reading
Tip 13 May 2022

Evaluate 5G networks vs. 4G for data centers

5G networking requires organizations and data centers to support IoT, while 4G requires increased machinery. Learn more about the differences between 5G and 4G for data centers. Continue Reading
Tip 06 May 2022

Explore liquid cooling for data centers

Discover the different classifications of liquid cooling -- such as direct-to-chip, liquid immersion or rear-door heat exchangers -- before adopting it in your data center. Continue Reading
Tip 03 May 2022

Data center cooling systems and technologies and how they work

Extreme heat and cold can keep equipment from operating at peak efficiency. Explore cost-efficient and cost-effective cooling technologies and smart options for your facility. Continue Reading
Tip 03 May 2022

6 ways to increase energy efficiency in data centers

Although there is no one single trick that admins can use to achieve an energy-efficient data center, there are several small things that can significantly decrease energy use. Continue Reading
Feature 03 May 2022

Liquid cooling vs. air cooling in the data center

The quest to maintain operating temperatures for increasing computing densities has firms transitioning from air cooling to liquid cooling. We assess both methods. Continue Reading
Tip 29 Apr 2022

Data center temperature and humidity guidelines

ASHRAE maintains a recommended list of humidity and temperature level standards for data centers. Discover how to keep your data center environment in tiptop shape. Continue Reading
Tip 28 Apr 2022

How to calculate data center cooling requirements

Data center cooling requirements are affected by several factors, including the equipment's heat output, the floor area, facility design and electrical system power rating. Continue Reading
Tip 25 Apr 2022

How much energy do data centers consume?

High energy consumption continues to be an issue in the data center, but organizations are moving to energy-efficient systems to manage and reduce their power usage. Continue Reading
Tip 22 Apr 2022

How 5G affects data centers and how to prepare

Data centers can prepare for the rise of 5G networking by understanding how it functions, upgrading crucial infrastructure and understanding how 5G networks can benefit them. Continue Reading
Feature 30 Mar 2022

The global state of data center sustainability

Review green initiatives in the world of data centers: sustainable designs and practices, what other organizations are doing and where IT falls short. Continue Reading
Tip 11 Mar 2022

Data center safety tips to protect staff

Safety in the data center requires organizations to identify and address a variety of risk factors, from electrical systems to staff illness. Continue Reading
Feature 10 Mar 2022

Recent data center advancements include AI, new CPUs

Recent advancements in data center technology and staffing models reflect organizations' desire for increased IT agility, efficiency and flexibility. Continue Reading
Feature 04 Mar 2022

3 colocation trends to consider in 2022

Key developments in the data center services market include smaller, more flexible deployments, AI optimization and a continuing focus on sustainability. Continue Reading
Tip 23 Feb 2022

Key data center trends in 2022

In 2022, data centers will introduce a variety of new technologies. Expect a focus on hybrid cloud, solid-state storage, DCIM and sustainability measures. Continue Reading
News 08 Feb 2022

Nvidia, Arm deal fails after heightened regulatory scrutiny

Nvidia's acquisition of Arm Ltd. faced its share of regulatory hurdles, but the global semiconductor chip shortage prompted increased scrutiny of the chip-related deal. Continue Reading
Tip 03 Feb 2022

What to know about data center fire protection

Protect your data center from potential fire hazards through proper mitigation, detection and suppression. Then, create a plan for recovery in the event of a fire. Continue Reading
Tip 27 Jan 2022

Create data center electrical safety guidelines

Compose a comprehensive electrical safety strategy and keep your data center staff safe from electrical hazards. Learn what best practices and standards you should consider. Continue Reading
Tip 04 Jan 2022

Foster health and safety in the post-pandemic data center

Data centers adapted to a new set of circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. As work and the pandemic continue to change, here's how data centers can continue to evolve. Continue Reading
Feature 23 Dec 2021

What you should consider when right-sizing a data center

How does an organization decide the appropriate size and density for its data centers? Consider factors such as rack layout and available power first. Continue Reading
Feature 08 Dec 2021

Data center backup generators for mission-critical loads

To select the correct backup generator for your mission-critical data, learn the fuel, cost and efficiency considerations you should take into account. Continue Reading
Tip 29 Nov 2021

Cable management software enhances documentation, visibility

Even a timeworn networking discipline like cabling can undergo a renaissance. See how cable management software helps organizations visualize network connectivity. Continue Reading
Tip 19 Nov 2021

Best practices for data center risk assessment

Data centers contain risks such as height, environmental and electrical hazards. Keep your staff safe by assessing the level of risk and creating a comprehensive safety plan. Continue Reading
Feature 19 Nov 2021

Get started with green energy for your data center

Running a sustainable data center requires organizations to consider factors such as facility sustainability, efficient storage and servers, and outsourcing options. Continue Reading
Answer 04 Nov 2021

What are the 6 components of structured cabling?

The six components of structured cabling are Entrance Facilities, Equipment Room, Backbone Cabling, Telecommunications Room, Horizontal Cabling and Work Area. Continue Reading
Tip 27 Sep 2021

Considerations for sustainable data center design

To design a green, sustainable data center, consider methods to improve energy conservation and efficiency. Then, look into green -- or greener -- energy source alternatives. Continue Reading
Tip 21 Sep 2021

Pros and cons of on-site power generation for data centers

Organizations considering a move to on-site power generation should weigh drawbacks -- such as cost -- against benefits, including sustainability and increased control over power. Continue Reading
Tip 21 Sep 2021

Evaluate air cooling vs. liquid cooling for your data center

Air cooling and liquid cooling for data centers offer different benefits and drawbacks. To decide which best suits your organization, consider the pros and cons of each. Continue Reading
Tip 02 Sep 2021

Learn the difference between SMP vs. MPP

Learn the differences between the main modes of multiprocessing: SMP, AMP and MPP. Each has a distinct use case that makes it suited for different data centers and organizations. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Aug 2021

Data center facility management team-building checklist

A good data center facilities team and strategy can ensure the rest of your company runs smoothly. Here are the steps you should take when putting that team together. Continue Reading
Tip 05 Aug 2021

Explore hot and cold aisle containment for your data center

Explore hot aisle and cold aisle containment for the data center, a practice that can reduce energy costs by helping better manage environmental factors. Continue Reading
Tip 22 Jul 2021

Data center contactless tech beyond the pandemic

No-touch tech like haptics and LiDAR became commonplace during the coronavirus pandemic, but such technology can increase demands on the data centers supporting it. Continue Reading
Tip 22 Jul 2021

What does a data center facility manager do?

Data center facility managers are responsible for the data center at large -- from the outside of the building to the infrastructure it houses. Continue Reading
Tip 19 Jul 2021

Does your data center need a smart PDU?

A smart PDU can help you monitor and manage power flow more efficiently than a traditional PDU. Here's what you should consider before deciding whether to adopt. Continue Reading
Tip 16 Jul 2021

Learn about ambient temperature sensors for data centers

Ambient temperature sensors can help you keep track of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and airflow in your data center so you can avoid downtime. Continue Reading
Feature 13 Apr 2021

Data processing units accelerate infrastructure performance

DPUs often run on networking packets to move information in the data center, instead of supporting processing workflows. Get an overview of the technology and the main vendors. Continue Reading
Feature 19 Mar 2021

Facilities planners, managers look to cloud enterprise platforms

AI, analytics, collaboration software and advanced HVAC technology help reconfigure and manage safe and flexible workplace environments for employees returning to the office. Continue Reading
Guide 19 Mar 2021

Workforce strategy and planning in times of crisis

HR, IT and facilities managers are focused on reconfiguring workplaces and the technologies that ensure the safety, productivity and privacy of employees returning to the office. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Mar 2021

Nvidia vs. AMD: Compare GPU offerings

Chip vendors Nvidia and AMD each offer GPUs optimized for large data centers. Compare the two to decide which best suits your business requirements. Continue Reading
Tip 24 Feb 2021

CRAC design upgrades simplify HVAC maintenance

CRAC/CRAH hardware updates make data center cooling more efficient. And these new systems are easier for admins to maintain and they reduce dust accumulation across infrastructure. Continue Reading
Feature 19 Feb 2021

Nvidia acquisition of Arm faces industry, regulatory hurdles

Nvidia's acquisition of Arm Ltd. could change the chipmaker landscape and is reportedly raising industry and regulatory eyebrows. Continue Reading
Feature 25 Jan 2021

Modular UPS systems provide flexible power management options

UPSes can provide backup power scalability and efficiency. Admins should consider modular setups for extra redundancy, mixed capacity modules and cost savings. Continue Reading
Tip 15 Jan 2021

Get a template to estimate server power consumption per rack

Admins can struggle with power consumption estimation as infrastructure gets more complex. The kW-per-rack metric can help provide an accurate calculation of server power use. Continue Reading
News 23 Dec 2020

Data center market M&A deals hit new high in 2020

This year proved to be a banner year for data center mergers and acquisitions with 113 deals valued at over $30 billion, a pace that is unlikely to slow in 2021. Continue Reading
Feature 18 Dec 2020

Guide to colocation and how to choose a provider

It's important to thoroughly evaluate facilities, pricing and contract terms before choosing a colocation provider. Also, consider the challenges that come with going colo. Continue Reading
News 16 Nov 2020

Japan named HPC leader as world races to exascale

Exascale computers are due to arrive in 2021 in the U.S. and China. Developers are being urged to make these systems user-friendly and accessible. Continue Reading
Tip 02 Nov 2020

Software-defined power offers benefits, but lacks popular interest

Virtualized power systems promise to ease deployment and maintenance, but the market is still in its nascency. Continue Reading
Tip 28 Oct 2020

Mini PCs for business offer improved performance, reduced costs

Mini PCs are a low-cost hardware alternative to servers that enable organizations to maintain maximum data center features and capabilities in remote office locations. Continue Reading
Feature 07 Aug 2020

5 hyper-converged infrastructure trends analysts predict for 2023

What's next for hyper-converged infrastructure? We've asked industry analysts and consultants to shed some light on the technology's medium-term prospects. Continue Reading
Feature 30 Jul 2020

A mechanical refrigeration system primer for admins

Mechanical cooling is a necessity to keep data centers efficient year-round. The system type you use depends on the refrigerant, number of heat exchanges and airflow requirements. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Jun 2020

Take control of Hyper-V power management for cost efficiency

Organizations can better manage Hyper-V power consumption through various means, such as using Hyper-V power plans, server cores and SCVMM capabilities. Continue Reading
Tip 29 May 2020

Pick a data center layout: Raised floors vs. overhead cabling

There's no definitive design when it comes to data center infrastructure. Cost, manageability and cooling effectiveness are all factors during the selection process. Continue Reading
Feature 16 Mar 2020

Want an HPC data center? Colocation could be the answer

Colocation can offer the space, HVAC and security an organization needs to implement high-performance computing and delve deeper into its data. But not every provider is a match. Continue Reading
Tip 27 Jan 2020

A guide to data center maintenance outsourcing

Data centers have a lot of moving mechanical parts to maintain. It's beneficial to leave electrical and fire system upkeep to the professionals instead of doing it all in-house. Continue Reading
Tip 20 Dec 2019

5 considerations for efficient VMware design

Designing a VMware environment requires you to consider many factors, such as storage, CPUs, security and VM density. A few tips can keep your design simple and elegant. Continue Reading
Feature 11 Dec 2019

Refresh your data center cooling lexicon

As the data center industry moves to improve energy efficiency, refresh your knowledge on the available cooling technology and methodologies. Continue Reading
Tip 09 Dec 2019

Get eco-friendly with LEED data center certification

The U.S. Green Building Council helps companies make existing and new data centers eco-friendly. HVAC, lighting and monitoring technology help increase infrastructure efficiency. Continue Reading
News 27 Nov 2019

U.S. facility may have best data center PUE

The data center energy efficiency metric, power usage effectiveness, or PUE, is not improving. But one supercomputer data center is showing that big improvements are possible. Continue Reading
Feature 21 Aug 2019

Host Analytics FP&A software aids Digital Realty decision-making

Digital Realty digitized financial planning and analysis to enable data-driven decisions. Here's a look at how that has enabled growth for the $3 billion business. Continue Reading
Tip 23 Jul 2019

A quick guide to data center commissioning

Service provider selection, design documentation and thorough testing are all necessary for commissioning. Learn the process's nuances to get your facilities online. Continue Reading
News 19 Jun 2019

China's supercomputing systems soar from 21 to 219 in a decade

The U.S. dominates in total supercomputing performance, but lags behind China in the overall number of supercomputers. U.S. x86 vendors sell many of the chips used in these systems, but ARM may soon be giving them a run for their money. Continue Reading
Tip 18 Jun 2019

Data center cooling systems advance, incorporate natural sources

Despite concerns around water-based cooling technology, organizations are developing new hardware setups that rely on fjords and oceans to effectively cool dense server racks. Continue Reading
Feature 23 May 2019

How do I size a UPS unit?

Your data center UPS sizing needs are dependent on a variety of factors. Develop configurations and determine the estimated UPS capacity that will meet your current and future needs. Continue Reading
Answer 30 Apr 2019

What are viable Open19 use cases and hardware options?

Open19 is working with vendors to make hardware for its open source infrastructure. The goal is to support a growing number of off-premises use cases, such as edge computing. Continue Reading