Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

• 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

• Top data center infrastructure management software in 2022

  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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• What do GPUs do in your data center?

  Though developed to handle complex graphics rendering calculations, GPUs now handle a variety of tasks in the data center. Learn what they can do for you.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Why hyper-converged infrastructure simplifies IT management

  As fractured data center landscapes shift to HCI environments to consolidate IT operations, learn the many advantages, disadvantages and challenges of hyper-converged deployments.Continue Reading

• Assessing colocation vs. cloud for hybrid IT infrastructure

  When transforming operations to a hybrid IT environment, there's one other option to consider beyond the premises, public cloud and hybrid. Learn the many advantages of colocation.Continue Reading

• Hidden colocation cost drivers to look out for in 2022

  These unexpected charges and fees can balloon colocation costs for enterprise IT organizations.Continue Reading

• What to consider when selecting an IaaS provider

  A good IaaS should act like a partner, tailored to your infrastructure. Keep these criteria in mind when selecting a provider for your organization's IaaS.Continue Reading

• 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

• What is edge computing? Everything you need to know

  Edge computing is a distributed information technology (IT) architecture in which client data is processed at the periphery of the network, as close to the originating source as possible.Continue Reading

• 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

• Common Kubernetes terminology you should know

  What are pods and nodes? How do namespaces differ from volumes? This list of common Kubernetes terms can give you a basic understanding of the container management platform.Continue Reading

• What does a DPU do?

  Learn the basics of data processing units: What they are, what they do, who's making them and who's adopting them. Then decide whether your data center might use one someday.Continue Reading

• 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

• Can green colocation help orgs meet sustainability targets?

  Colocation providers prioritizing sustainability draw customers seeking to offset carbon emissions. But many orgs can also take steps to address sustainability issues in-house.Continue Reading

• Learn the major types of server hardware and their pros and cons

  Servers protect data, centralize resources and enable remote worker productivity, but buyers must understand which server types works best for their data center.Continue Reading

• 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

• Evaluate edge computing software for device management

  Managing a variety of devices at the edge can create a complex challenge for organizations, but software-based edge management platforms can help.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• Top 5 data center technology trends to watch in 2021

  2020 changed how IT pros managed and provisioned infrastructure. In 2021, organizations must find ways to support automation, AI and data analysis in the data center.Continue Reading

• Smart UPS features for better backup power

  Vendors now offer UPSes with functions that help regulate voltage and maintain battery health. Before you upgrade, evaluate costs and confirm infrastructure compatibility.Continue Reading

• Main factors that can guide your UPS selection process

  To choose the right UPS, be sure to figure out business needs, power supply size requirements and how long your backup systems must last during downtime.Continue Reading

• 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

• 4 data center UPS vendors to evaluate

  UPSes are crucial components to any backup power system. Use power ratings, infrastructure voltage requirements and the UPS type to guide the selection process.Continue Reading

• Your primer to colocation pricing and rack space rightsizing

  Even with structured pricing methods, there's a lot to consider when making colocation infrastructure purchases. Account for future hardware needs and spend flexibility.Continue Reading

• How to negotiate a fair data center colocation agreement

  It's critical to business operations and your overall budget to know what a good colocation SLA covers, what it doesn't and how to negotiate one for your organization.Continue Reading

• Top 5 colocation providers of 2021

  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

• Colocation pricing guide: Understanding data center costs

  Colocation facility costs can include anything from power fees and bandwidth service charges to connectivity expenses, change fees and support costs.Continue Reading

• Avoid colocation and cloud noisy neighbor issues

  In any multi-tenant IT environment, noisy neighbors can be an issue. Here's a closer look at how the challenges differ in the public cloud versus colocation.Continue Reading

• 9 considerations for a colocation data center selection checklist

  Use this data center selection checklist to make fair and comprehensive comparisons between colocation data center providers before making a decision.Continue Reading

• Retail colocation vs. wholesale data centers: How to choose

  One offers more control, while the other offers more flexible space. If you're considering a colocation facility, how do you decide between wholesale and retail?Continue Reading

• 7 benefits of colocation for your business and 4 challenges

  Colocation is not a silver-bullet solution for everyone. Discover the benefits and drawbacks that come with allowing a third-party to manage your IT equipment.Continue Reading

• What is database refreshing?

  IT testing and software development constantly requires fresh data. It's easy to run a database refresh and generate new data for sandbox or production tasks.Continue Reading

• Extend your power lifecycle with Li-ion data center batteries

  Backup system batteries are critical in any infrastructure. Developments in Li-ion technology can bring more power, lower TCO and a longer component lifespan.Continue Reading

• Transform your infrastructure to support parallel processing

  Quick, real-time data analysis is a boost to any organization's operations. With the right hardware and software, you can support parallelization in your data center.Continue Reading

• 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

• 7 must-have cloud infrastructure automation tools

  Learn how organizations can use automated provisioning tools to automate the configuration, deployment and management of their cloud-based infrastructure.Continue Reading

• Red Hat vs. SUSE: How do these Linux distributions stack up?

  See how two leading Linux open source software products -- RHEL and SLES -- compare when it comes to supported architectures, ease of use, support and pricing.Continue Reading

• The value of an IoT implementation in the data center

  IoT can help with data center management and optimization. Before you embark on an implementation, evaluate use cases, software options and security concerns.Continue Reading

• A look at the main differences of Bourne shell vs. Bash

  Shells help admins run commands from the keyboard to the OS. Though Bourne shell and Bash are similar, there are differences in layout and code compatibility.Continue Reading

• Discover the main differences between COTS vs. GOTS

  When admins compare government versus commercial software options, they must consider cost, use cases and available support as part of the selection process.Continue Reading

• Tips to get colocation contract renewal right

  During your team's colocation contract renewal process, be sure to reevaluate power requirements, spending flexibility and one-time cross-connect fees to gain better services.Continue Reading

• Single-socket servers offer cost, utilization benefits to admins

  Different server types bring advantages in processing speed, memory availability and overall cost. See what single- and dual-socket servers can add to your infrastructure.Continue Reading

• The case against data center consolidation

  Having one centralized data center can bring IT benefits. Use cases such as IoT, edge computing and cloud don't necessarily work with consolidated infrastructure.Continue Reading

• 4 disadvantages of hyper-converged infrastructure systems

  Problems with scalability and cloud compatibility can create major issues for organizations that want to deploy hyper-converged infrastructure systems.Continue Reading

• The basics and benefits of lights-out management

  For remote IT capabilities, lights-out management tools enable admins to power servers off and on, monitor temperatures and remediate potential operational issues.Continue Reading

• Vendors investigate chiplets as CPU expansion option

  As chipmakers expand the amount of processing power in CPUs, some are considering the use of chiplets. These modular silicon pieces offer a possible option for scalable designs.Continue Reading

• Server hardware guide to architecture, products and management

  Today's server platforms offer a host of options for SMBs and enterprise IT buyers; it's important to learn the essentials before making any purchasing decisions.Continue Reading

• Get the right SLA for enterprise liquid cooling services

  If you're interested in data center liquid cooling, investigate the technology types, available service providers and outline an effective agreement for successful system use.Continue Reading

• Organizations tackle data center operations during COVID-19

  With an increased remote workforce, organizations must address infrastructure bandwidth, data center access and business continuity. The right software and staffing policies can help.Continue Reading

• Dive into the history of server hardware

  Server hardware has consistently evolved since the first web server in 1990. Here's a look at the major advancements in form factor, management and virtualization.Continue Reading

• How to purchase the best server hardware for small business

  Before buying a server, it's important to assess the SMB's needs and review these seven steps outlining the factors an organization should consider.Continue Reading

• An in-depth look at calculating server hardware costs for SMBs

  Servers can be expensive, but there's more to the purchase than just the price of the hardware. Learn what additional items an SMB must factor into the overall cost.Continue Reading

• 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

• Rack vs. blade server: What's the difference?

  Don't neglect form factor as part of your data center server selection. Instead, figure out what type of environment you need and learn which server use cases will work best.Continue Reading

• Traditional vs. converged vs. hyper-converged infrastructure setups

  HCI clusters, converged infrastructure and rack servers all offer benefits for a data center. Still, figuring out which is easier to set up requires evaluation and planning.Continue Reading

• Data center liquid cooling market heats up

  As organizations increase server rack density, more C-level execs investigate liquid cooling technology. Industry experts see these systems as an operational and cost necessity.Continue Reading

• Considerations for SIEM logging software and storage

  SIEM systems aggregate a lot of data across all types of infrastructure. For regular audits, admins should address notification settings, analysis protocols and storage locations.Continue Reading

• SIEM vs. SOAR: Key considerations for software evaluation

  SIEM and SOAR tools are now seen as complementary to each other, but key differences in purpose and features may determine which one you decide to use in your data center.Continue Reading

• Essential components and tools of server monitoring

  Server capacity management requires a list of infrastructure components to watch and the right tools. A workflow with these concepts ensures uptime and helps usage predictions.Continue Reading

• What's involved in cloud repatriation cost calculation?

  The costs associated with cloud repatriation go beyond the migration itself. IT managers must account for any new hardware, backup requirements and available skilled personnel.Continue Reading

• Advances in server hardware components speed up data centers

  Server hardware has consistently evolved since the 1980s. Now, IT professionals can implement the latest in CPU and GPU technology in their ever-growing data centers.Continue Reading

• Improvements in CPU features help shape selection

  CPUs have evolved to meet ever-increasing technology demands. We look at the way performance and power characteristics have shifted in recent years.Continue Reading

• Dive into the quantum computing qubit with IBM's Bob Sutor

  The quantum computing industry is entering a new era. IBM's Bob Sutor discusses the technology's importance and how his latest book can help readers better understand the qubit.Continue Reading

• Build up your knowledge of leaf-spine network technology

  As organizations deal with challenges of single tree path networks, many admins are considering leaf-spine architectures. Learn the ways its topology helps latency and data flow.Continue Reading

• HPC services bring computational power to more organizations

  Navigating HPC colocation requires knowledge of power, uptime and security demands. Deploying such services can bring innovative opportunities for organizations.Continue Reading

• 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

• Plan a successful migration to HPC colocation

  If your organization decides to host its HPC hardware in a colocated data center, ensure a smooth migration with proper location selection, security measures and application testing.Continue Reading

• Top data center skills admins can use in 2020

  The 2019 tech job sector saw consistent growth and job availability. In 2020, admins should develop expertise on cloud architectures, edge computing deployments and automation.Continue Reading

• Organizations try to predict the effect of 5G infrastructure

  With more 5G and IoT devices emerging, admins must prepare their data centers to support low-latency apps and edge computing with the right network and processing hardware.Continue Reading

• Gartner analyst lists application migration strategy essentials

  Application prioritization, risk assessment and cost evaluation are key migration strategy components for organizations looking to move workloads from on prem to the cloud or a colo facility.Continue Reading

• Comparing Linux distributions: Red Hat vs. Ubuntu

  Before selecting a Linux distribution, compare Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Ubuntu when it comes to features, ease of use, licensing and documentation.Continue Reading

• Top 4 open source automation tools for admins

  Open source offerings are an easy way to bring automation into your organization. When selecting software, evaluate the user experience, main features offered and Linux support.Continue Reading

• Top guidelines for edge computing software selection

  Finding edge software that meets all your organization's needs requires help from both the business and IT sides. Get the right fit with use case information and developer input.Continue Reading

• Learn the basics of ACI network technology

  Application-centric infrastructure is one way to support an SDN setup. By learning the basics, admins can manage networks with automation and data abstraction.Continue Reading

• Essential private cloud migration steps

  Executive buy-in, application evaluation and tool configuration are all important parts of cloud selection. With these steps, admins can ensure a smooth move to private cloud.Continue Reading

• Can next-gen SIEM help cybersecurity initiatives?

  More organizations are using SIEM, AI and cloud technology to minimize security breaches. Though despite interest, this combination is still in its infancy.Continue Reading

• Data center management as a service launches DCIM to the cloud

  DMaaS is an option for organizations that want to use cloud-based management. Though these offerings hold a lot of promise, there are concerns about cost and function.Continue Reading

• Answers to top server lifecycle management questions

  Unsure when to maintain, upgrade or ditch a server? Here's a look at your hardware -- and software -- care options.Continue Reading

• Should admins learn about serverless computing?

  Serverless architecture is beneficial to organizations that use virtualization and function-as-a-service models. Here's what admins should know about it.Continue Reading

• 3 ways to benefit from open source infrastructure

  Using open source infrastructure can reduce operating costs and streamline upgrades, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons before you jump on the bandwagon.Continue Reading

• 3 vendors to consider for an HCI appliance

  HCI isn't just a software product; market vendors such as Nutanix, HPE and Pivot3 also have specific appliances for admins that want features for network and storage management.Continue Reading

• 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

• 4 essential KPIs for edge computing management

  If you want to track edge deployment activity, look at storage, network and processing resources to guide workload configuration and maintenance needs.Continue Reading

• Colocation vs. cloud: Quiz yourself on these workload expansion options

  Colocation or cloud? Data centers have plenty of expansion options beyond building a new facility. Learn about each option -- and test your knowledge -- with this quiz.Continue Reading

• A guide to IaaS provider selection

  Adding a cloud infrastructure service requires proper evaluation procedures and research. For a smooth transition, assess VM shapes, developer skill sets, licensing and security.Continue Reading

• 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

• With atoms and lasers, IonQ makes a quantum computing leap

  Startup IonQ is taking a decidedly sci-fi approach to quantum computing, using atoms to store information, along with sophisticated lasers to retrieve and process that data.Continue Reading

• Guarantee HCI software compatibility with cloud apps

  IT execs must evaluate an organization's current on-prem and cloud setup before selecting a hyper-converged offering to avoid security holes, disjointed workflows and poor user experience.Continue Reading

• 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

• How to build a successful colocation strategy

  Proper evaluation of a colocation data center means reviewing geographic location, cost structure and accessibility to ensure the facility is right for their organization.Continue Reading

• Open source virtualization expands VM hardware and OS options

  Dive into open source virtualization software with VirtualBox, KVM or QEMU. Each offers customizable VM management capabilities and legacy hardware support.Continue Reading

• 4 considerations for choosing a private cloud provider

  Key features to look for from a private cloud provider include interoperability, scalability and how familiar admins are with the provider's technology.Continue Reading