Data Center Scalability: Scaling Up to Meet Business Demands

Living in the modern digital era means entrusting many tasks to “artificial brains”. Nowadays, large network organisms are responsible for datum storage and processing, performing complicated duties, and making calculations. Thus, such “brains” consist of dozens and hundreds of hardware pieces to be able to cope with large volumes of data.

Where are they accommodated? Closed data centers are the best option for digital “heart” housing. Data centers are large, spacious premises, where all the required conditions are maintained and controlled.

Reasons for Network System Accommodation in Data Centers

When it comes to large network systems, DCs are preferable. The popularity of data centers is explained by the following benefits:

1. The required temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions are created and maintained so that equipment functions healthily, smoothly, and effectively.
2. Access to hardware is limited. No unauthorized people can enter these rooms and damage devices.
3. Ventilation strategies are developed and adjusted.
4. 100% security from climatic impacts and pollution.
5. Flexibility. It is possible to arrange any layout.

Arranging a data center will be a wise solution for both large- and mid-businesses, enterprises, and international corporations.

Factors Affecting Data Center Scalability

However, if you decide to arrange a server room, data center scalability is an important step that requires thorough attention. Choosing the best room and organizing its layout are difficult tasks. Here are the main requirements to keep in mind:

• Power and cooling capacity

Examine the room to find out what power supply sources are available and can be installed additionally to feed your system. Note that IT devices consume much power, so make sure that the available PDU is able to meet the power demand of your system.

Also, pay attention to ventilation and the possibility of installing forced server rack cooling solutions. Hardware tends to emit much heat, so it is vital to arrange its sufficient removal.

• Physical infrastructure and space

Assess whether the premise is spacious enough to accommodate your equipment and server cabinets. Note that the modern industry offers diverse models for mounting constructions on vertical surfaces (walls) and floors, so customers can pick a suitable option for any room size.

As for physical infrastructure, check what objects are provided in the room. Also, make sure that the premises are located far from high-vibration zones.

• Network connectivity

Check whether the Web connection is stable and not lagging or sudden disconnection occurs. It is crucial for IT systems to be connected to the Web 24/7 since they function and communicate through the Internet. Sudden disconnections lead to data loss and failures in operation.

• Staffing and resource allocation

Consider the point of how the staff will reach the data center. Is it accessible? What security means will be taken to protect equipment?

• Hardware and software technology

Use innovative solutions to set up and house the system. Setting configurations for updated software will ensure smooth communication between units and the control board.

Note that technicians may face a number of challenges during data center scalability. These include:

• cost and budget constraints;
• the lack of skilled personnel;
• legacy technology and infrastructure;
• security and compliance concerns, and so on.

Thus, the preparatory stage is the most important one. The success and lifetime of an entire system directly depend on correctly performed work during this step.

Best Practices for Data Center Scalability

To cope with all duties with flying colors at the preparatory stage, take into account the following practices:

1. Regular capacity assessments and planning for growth. Consider free space when you need to add new units or enlarge a system. Remember the need to place devices loosely, create cold and hot aisles, and choose more spacious cabinets.
2. Prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability. When selecting feeding devices, hardware, and accessories, give preference to sustainable products that consume less energy.
3. Standardizing server racks. Servicer furniture designs are standardized, which allows for housing and fastening all sorts of active and passive hardware. Thus, colocation is possible.
4. Optimizing server rack cable management. Cabling is a key issue for keeping devices in order in server rooms. The use of special accessories allows for avoiding tangling.
5. Implementing redundancy and failover mechanisms. Network systems are responsible for data storage. An emergency disconnection leads to data loss and failures. Thus, the appliance of an uninterruptable power source will help prevent trouble with the database.
6. Automating processes. The installation of software and devices for remote control and management will simplify system handling and configuration.
7. Analytics and monitoring. The use of sensors and other control tools allows for eliminating hazards timely and preventing downtime.

To sum up, data center scalability is an important step when organizing server premises. However, if the staff approaches it seriously and attentively, you’ll get a well-scaled room for your projects for many years.