Data Center
Top Stories
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Tip
17 Aug 2026
Building trust: Engaging communities in data center development
Effective communication is essential in data center development. Engaging the community early addresses concerns and prepares IT leaders for stakeholder interactions. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Aug 2026
Understanding AI's resource needs and sustainability challenges
Discover how AI's demands are affecting data centers' power and water resources, cooling challenges and the approaches being implemented to address these concerns. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2024
What is VMware vCenter Server?
VMware vCenter Server is a centralized management platform for configuring, controlling and monitoring VMware vSphere virtual environments. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What is a software-defined data center (SDDC)?
A software-defined data center (SDDC) is a server management concept in which all infrastructure elements -- networking, storage and compute -- are virtualized and delivered as a service. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jul 2024
Platform engineering best practices for data centers
Platform engineering is an emerging discipline that optimizes DevOps workflows with internal developer platforms. It enhances efficiency through automation and standardized tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jul 2024
What is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a device that allows a computer to keep running for at least a short time when incoming power is interrupted. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jul 2024
What is RPM Package Manager?
RPM Package Manager (RPM), originally called the Red Hat Package Manager, is an open source program for installing, uninstalling and managing software packages in Linux. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2024
supervisor call (SVC)
In computers, especially IBM mainframes, a supervisor call (SVC) instruction is a processor instruction that directs the processor to pass control of the computer to the operating system's supervisor program. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2024
white box server
A white box server is a data center computer that is not manufactured by a well-known name-brand vendor. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jul 2024
What is an automatic transfer switch?
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is a device that automatically transfers a power supply from its primary source to a backup source when it senses a failure or outage in the primary source. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2024
Understand the uses of blockchain in data centers
Blockchain is most famous for its cryptocurrency applications, but data centers can employ it for a variety of business-related reasons -- including increased security. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jul 2024
JetCool CEO on liquid cooling and the modern data center
In this Q&A, JetCool's CEO talks about the growing interest in liquid cooling and how it's being used to divert heat away from compute so that bigger workloads can run consistently. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jul 2024
scalability
In information technology, scalability (frequently spelled 'scaleability') has two uses: for a computer application to function with change in size and volume, and to take advantage of a rescale. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jul 2024
field-replaceable unit (FRU)
In electronic hardware, particularly computer systems, a field-replaceable unit (FRU) is a circuit board or part that can be easily removed and replaced by the user or technician without having to send the product or system to a repair facility. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jul 2024
hardware clustering
Hardware clustering, sometimes called OS clustering, is a hardware-based method of turning multiple servers into a cluster -- a group of servers that acts like a single system. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jul 2024
boot loader (boot manager)
A boot loader (boot manager) is a small program that places the operating system (OS) of a computer into memory. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jul 2024
twisted pair
Twisted pair is the ordinary copper wire that connects home and business computers to a telephone company. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jul 2024
What is VSAM (Virtual Storage Access Method)?
Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM) is an access method for IBM's mainframe operating system, MVS, now called z/OS. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2024
Lenovo expands AI offerings, liquid cooling
Lenovo sets itself apart from others by offering configured AI products to speed deployment and shape direction, while also expanding liquid cooling to lower costs. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jun 2024
Next steps to consider before CentOS 7 end of life
In today's world of security threats, it's critical to keep OSes up to date. As the end-of-life date for CentOS 7 approaches, companies can no longer delay distribution migration. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Jun 2024
Artificial intelligence, Nvidia took center stage at HPE Discover 2024
With many organizations developing or evaluating generative AI initiatives, HPE increased its commitment to the space through a broad partnership with Nvidia. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jun 2024
Maximize data center cooling efficiency by controlling airflow
Cool air is expensive, and wasting it is inefficient. Maintaining hot and cool air separation maximizes cooling effectiveness, energy efficiency and air conditioner performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jun 2024
Maximize UPS capacity with three-phase power
A data center's UPS might not be overloaded. Check loads on the circuits and balance all three phases as closely as possible to obtain efficient capacity and energy out of the UPS. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2024
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
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News
11 Jun 2024
StorMagic debuts HCI, hypervisor as VMware alternative
StorMagic looks to court customers with smaller data centers for SMBs and the edge with SvHCI, a new VMware alternative with a KVM-based hypervisor and HCI capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jun 2024
SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux)
SELinux, or Security-Enhanced Linux, is a part of the Linux kernel that acts as a protective agent to the operating system. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jun 2024
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES)
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) is a Linux-based server operating system created and maintained by the German-based organization, SUSE. Continue Reading
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Opinion
31 May 2024
Lessons in AI from Dell Technologies World 2024
A main focus of the Dell Technologies World 2024 conference was AI and how it impacts infrastructure environments. Dell spotlighted three AI infrastructure strategies to consider. Continue Reading
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News
30 May 2024
Dell exec looks back at history when considering AI's future
In this Q&A, Dell's Matt Baker lays out how its AI Factory is designed for faster AI adoption, why there are so many chatbots and how AI might affect the workforce of the future. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2024
7 considerations for data center site selection
An incredible amount of research must go into data center site selection. If the location does not fit company demands, the data center cannot perform as necessary. Continue Reading
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News
23 May 2024
Dell AI Factory curates AI tech for customers
Dell showcased its AI Factory at Dell Technologies World 2024, and some early customers are already talking about the lift AI has given their businesses. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 May 2024
Data center power backup options to deal with downtime
Generators, UPS systems and batteries work in tandem to safeguard data centers against power outages, fluctuations and grid failures. Admins must know what system is best for them. Continue Reading
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News
20 May 2024
Dell refines AI factory, expands Nvidia partnership
The Dell AI Factory took center stage at Dell Technologies World with new infrastructure additions, a broader AI ecosystem and an expanded partnership with Nvidia. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2024
VMware Cloud on AWS now sold exclusively by Broadcom
Broadcom discontinues AWS as a reseller of VMware Cloud on AWS, further evidence that it wants hands-on control of how the VM technology is sold, supported and distributed. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2024
Safeguard data center power with regular UPS maintenance
There are several levels of testing to address when developing a UPS maintenance checklist. Be sure to conduct visual, thermal and load tests to verify UPS health. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2024
technological convergence
Technological convergence is a term that describes bringing previously unrelated technologies together, often in a single device. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2024
information technology (IT)
Information technology (IT) is the use of computers, storage, networking and other physical devices, infrastructure and processes to create, process, store, secure and exchange all forms of electronic data. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 May 2024
Nutanix
Nutanix is a private and hybrid cloud software provider. It started as a hyperconverged infrastructure pioneer that now markets its technology as a building block for private clouds. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2024
What to know about hybrid data center security strategies
Cybersecurity is critical to protect data and systems. Admins of hybrid data centers must understand the risks of a hybrid model and how specific cyberattacks can be prevented. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2024
PowerFlex (formerly ScaleIO)
PowerFlex is a software-defined storage product from Dell EMC. It is available as software only or as a prebuilt Dell server or rack appliance. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2024
data center
A data center is a facility composed of networked computers, storage systems and computing infrastructure that organizations use to assemble, process, store and disseminate large amounts of data. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2024
How to maintain data center power systems
Regular maintenance of data center power systems is necessary to have properly functioning equipment and backup power options. Common failures are batteries and loose connections. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Apr 2024
emergency power off (EPO) button
The emergency power off button, also called an EPO switch or EPO panel, is a safety measure for quickly disconnecting electrical power to a particular piece of equipment or facility in the event of an emergency. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2024
How to calculate data center cooling requirements
Data center cooling requirements are affected by several factors, including the equipment's heat output, floor area, facility design and electrical system power rating. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Apr 2024
raceway
A raceway, sometimes referred to as a raceway system, is an enclosed conduit that forms a physical pathway for electrical wiring. Continue Reading
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News
24 Apr 2024
Lenovo, AMD broaden AI options for customers
Lenovo is expanding its partnership with AMD to bring more options for servers and HCI devices aimed at AI. It also launched an AI advisory and professional services offering for customers. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2024
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the transfer of data from one computer system to another by standardized message formatting without the need for human intervention. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2024
GNOME (GNU Network Object Model Environment)
GNOME (GNU Network Object Model Environment) is a graphical user interface (GUI) and set of computer desktop applications for Linux operating system (OS) users. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2024
free cooling
Free cooling is an approach to lowering the air temperature in a building or data center by using naturally cool air or water instead of mechanical refrigeration. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2024
Infrastructure for machine learning, AI requirements, examples
Infrastructure for machine learning, deep learning and AI has component and configuration requirements. Compare hardware and how it goes together in an HCI or high-density system. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2024
e-cycling
E-cycling, also known as 'electronic recycling,' is the reuse or recycling of used electronic materials to limit e-waste. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Apr 2024
building management system
A building management system (BMS) is a control system that can be used to monitor and manage the mechanical, electrical and electromechanical services in a facility. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2024
Dell partners with Intel, releases file storage for Azure
With the recent Intel and Azure partnerships, Dell continues to expand its on-premises options for AI while expanding its Apex data file services in the cloud. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
10 Apr 2024
How to install and run Podman on Rocky Linux
Rocky Linux can run and install Podman, an open source Linux tool and competitor to Docker that uses containers to find, run and deploy applications. Run Podman on Rocky Linux now. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Apr 2024
Nvidia GTC 24: Are you ready for the future of AI?
The 2024 Nvidia GTC conference focused on the company's new Blackwell GPU Platform. With advancements in AI taking off, companies need to decide how and when they will join the world of AI. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2024
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe, PCI-E)
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe or PCI-E) is a serial expansion bus standard for connecting a computer to one or more peripheral devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2024
data center services
Data center services provide the supporting components necessary to the proper operation of a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2024
converged infrastructure
Converged infrastructure, sometimes called 'converged architecture,' is an approach to data center management that packages compute, networking, servers, storage and virtualization tools into a prequalified set of IT hardware. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2024
Nvidia partners, customers drive AI into data centers
Nvidia and its partners are providing the tools and infrastructure to build and deploy AI applications that companies say could transform their businesses. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2024
Use AI tools to simplify operations inside your data center
AI is a cornerstone technology that will be part of future-proofing the data center. It will control operations like cooling, network optimization and configuration management. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2024
How to understand advancements in modern data centers
Data center advancements are rapidly occurring with storage demand. Some advancements, like an increase in temperatures, are necessary for more sustainable data center operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Mar 2024
Importance of backup generator power for data centers
Data center generators are rarely run; however, they must go through regular testing and maintenance to ensure they work when a power outage occurs to prevent server downtime. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Mar 2024
Use Glances to monitor your data center systems
Glances is a real-time, Python-based performance monitor. Administrators with data centers that house multiple OSes should consider installing Glances. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Feb 2024
Sustainability benefits of cloud computing data centers
Cloud computing data centers use large amounts of electricity, but a main sustainability benefit is the cloud's large scale and ability to store more data. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Feb 2024
6 machine learning applications for data center optimization
AI and machine learning have the potential to revolutionize data center operations. They can manage facilities more efficiently by optimizing power consumption and monitoring. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Feb 2024
How to design and build a data center
Designing an efficient data center is no small feat. Review data center facility and infrastructure components as well as different standards and suggestions before you begin. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2024
workload
In computing, a workload is typically any program or application that runs on a computer. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2024
An overview of containerized data centers and their benefits
The rise in digital information is causing a shortage in data center storage space. Containerized data centers can be for permanent or temporary use. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2024
XML vs. YAML: Compare configuration file formats
Databases use data serialization languages, like XML and YAML, to transfer data between applications. XML and YAML have different strengths; admins should know how to use each correctly. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2024
Astera Labs uses CXL to accelerate AI, expand memory
Astera Labs is using the CXL interface in its now longer Smart Cable Module to spread out energy consumption while enabling GPU clusters to meet growing AI demands. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jan 2024
How to avoid malware on Linux systems
Malware attacks are devastating to companies, and there is no exception for Linux systems. Consider updating systems and assigning correct permissions. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
runlevel
A runlevel is an operating state on a Unix and Unix-based operating system that is preset on the Linux-based system. Continue Reading
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Opinion
10 Jan 2024
How 2024 GenAI investment will transform data centers
Companies are quickly adopting generative AI, and with this, the focus has shifted toward hybrid cloud environments, which spans from data center services on and off premises. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jan 2024
What is hyperconverged infrastructure? Guide to HCI
Hyperconverged infrastructure is a software-centric architecture that tightly integrates compute, storage and virtualization resources in a single system that usually consists of x86 hardware. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jan 2024
Where AI and quantum computing meet
Quantum computing may be years away from practical enterprise applications, but it's getting closer. We talked with IBM's quantum adoption leader to see where we're at right now. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2024
colocation (colo)
A colocation facility (colo) is a data center or telecommunications facility in which a business can rent space for servers, storage devices, and other computing and networking hardware. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jan 2024
A primer on AI chip design
Four common AI chips -- CPU, GPU, FPGA and ASIC -- are advancing with the current market for AI chip design. Read on to see what the future holds for AI chips. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jan 2024
How to purchase the best server hardware for small businesses
Before buying a server, it's important to assess an SMB's needs. Review these seven steps outlining the factors an organization should consider before purchasing a server. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2023
Lenovo's new ThinkSystem, ThinkAgile offerings aimed at AI
Lenovo has added the latest generation of Intel CPUs to new ThinkSystem servers and ThinkAgile HCI appliances to better address enterprise AI needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2023
Improve efficiency with server energy consumption tools
Deciding what servers are most efficient for your infrastructure requires research. Hardware-level certifications and web-based tools can help you select the right option. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Dec 2023
Rack vs. blade server: What's the difference?
Components in a physical data center are held in rack servers or blade servers. Learn the differences, what type of environment you need and which server uses work best. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Dec 2023
Dive into the history of server hardware
Server hardware has consistently evolved since the first web server in 1990. Here's a look at major advancements in management, virtualization and green initiatives. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2023
hyperconverged appliance (HCI appliance)
A hyperconverged appliance (HCI appliance) is a hardware device that provides multiple data center management technologies within a single box. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Dec 2023
Use ASHRAE guidelines to get server temperature right
Follow ASHRAE's guidelines to set up the right facility for your hardware by understanding proper conditions, such as filtration and inlet air temperature recommendations. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2023
AMD Instinct MI300 AI accelerator takes aim at Nvidia GPUs
Data center-grade GPUs and accelerators for enterprise customers and cloud vendors are the new battleground for AI hardware. AMD and Google advance the race with new chips. Continue Reading
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News
05 Dec 2023
IBM quantum computers make sizable leap
The largest enterprises now invest in quantum computing strategies -- but it's still a long way off for the typical business. IBM's Condor and Heron QPUs accelerate its arrival. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2023
Essential components and tools of server monitoring
Server monitoring requires a list of the right tools to use and infrastructure components to watch. A workflow with these concepts ensures uptime and helps usage predictions. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Dec 2023
shell program
A shell program is software that provides users with an interface for accessing services in the kernel. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2023
Data center air quality: The air servers breathe
Monitor data center air quality to ensure best working conditions for equipment. Particulates and gaseous contaminants cause irreversible damage if you do not use proper filtration. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2023
Use the data center circular economy for sustainability
Building data center servers and hardware requires use of many of Earth's nonrenewable resources. Data center owners must adopt the circular economy system for sustainability. Continue Reading
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News
22 Nov 2023
Broadcom completes VMware acquisition, promises investment
Broadcom plans to invest in VMware products that enable enterprises to build and modernize their private and hybrid cloud environments, Broadcom CEO Hock Tan said. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2023
Modular data center vs. traditional: When to choose each
Organizations have two options for using a data center: modular or traditional. Before deciding, companies should know how much power and cost can come from each option. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Nov 2023
8 Linux distributions to replace CentOS
Red Hat's discontinuation of CentOS is causing individual users and companies to look elsewhere for an RHEL-compatible OS. Look into compatibility and migration tools to decide. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
31 Oct 2023
How to upgrade RHEL 8 to 9
With CentOS 7 and RHEL 7 reaching end of maintenance, RHEL admins and developers must look into other OS options. Follow this tutorial to upgrade from RHEL 8 to 9. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2023
ducting (data center cooling)
Ducting is an approach to air management that uses a series of metal or plastic pipes to carry heated or cooled air from one place to another. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Oct 2023
With CentOS going away, what should users do?
Red Hat discontinued CentOS and replaced it with CentOS Stream. Other distributions, like Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux, provide free Linux OSes to the public. Continue Reading
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News
26 Oct 2023
Dell-Red Hat tackle DIY OpenShift deployments with appliance
Expanding its partnership with Red Hat, Dell is now offering OpenShift as a validated appliance for on-premises container deployment and management. Continue Reading
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Opinion
25 Oct 2023
Key themes emerge from Lenovo's 2023 analyst conference
Enterprise Strategy Group looks at Lenovo's 2023 Global Industry Analyst Conference and how the company is taking a more holistic view, with a focus on AI and sustainability. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
remote hands
Remote hands is the general name for a service colocation providers offer that enables customers to delegate IT management and maintenance tasks in a colocation facility to technicians hired by the provider. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Oct 2023
Red Hat vs. SUSE: How do these Linux distributions stack up?
Deciding between Red Hat and SUSE may not seem simple, but comparing training, pricing and certifications should help companies understand which would best suit their employees. Continue Reading
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News
02 Oct 2023
Edge AI server market grows
Rapid data growth and the need to process it at the edge is expanding opportunities in the server market, with new entries from Unigen and Lenovo. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Sep 2023
Server room cleaning -- not a DIY project
Server room cleaning is crucial for maintaining the life span of equipment in the data center. This task involves professional help to minimize operation interruptions. Continue Reading