Web Hosting Reviews & Ratings

June 21, 2010

Important Information about Colocation Data Centers

With so many web hosting companies available, offering many different packages with various features, it’s difficult to know the most important information to ask. Since servers are the spine of internet business, information regarding all aspects of a colocation data center should be ascertained.

When shopping for a collocation hosting provider there are a few points you should be aware of prior to contacting the host. This will create an open relationship with the provider and ensure all questions are answered. These points include:

• Connectivity
• Redundancy
• Routing
• Power
• Internal climate

The first area to question is the connectivity of the internet. Common questions involve the number of internet backbones, total available bandwidth, packet loss and uptime. These are important aspects of a server that must be fully addressed to ensure understanding.

Redundancy is another topic that must be touched upon. All colocation hosts should have redundant backup systems at every point within the operation. This includes networking systems as well as climate control.

Another point to tackle is load-responsive routing. This is the method in which internet traffic is routed which ultimately affects overall connectivity. Routing includes redundant routers and switches, performance-based routing and routing among internet backbones.

An additional detail is power setup. If there’s a power failure in the primary source, there should be backup generators that keep the network functional. Good power systems should include failover practices for changing to generators, multiple UPS systems and generators powerful enough to control 1.5 times the normal system load.

Finally, the internal climate of the data center can play a vital role in equipment performance. Since servers do emit a great deal of heat, a temperature and humidity-controlled climate is essential. Server rooms should have air flowing between rows with designated hot and cold channels circulating to prevent overheating.

Servers require a specific temperature and humidity, that being 72 degrees Fahrenheit and 45 percent. Colocation data centers must have chillers and computer room air conditioning to ensure proper storage conditions.

While colocation hosting providers can be an excellent hosting alternative, it’s vital to find a host that’s trustworthy and responds truthfully to all questions asked. While there are many reputable colocation web hosts available, it’s advantageous to conduct thorough research prior to making a decision. The best method for finding a good host is to expose pitfalls and inquire about the hosting company’s solution for correction. This will help find the most dependable host for your needs.

Tags: colocation data centers,  colocation web hosting,  collocation hosting provider,  redundant router