Best practices for data center operations
This data center operations topic center explains the best practices for diverse data center ops, from maintenance to change management to compliance with regulations. Data center operations should be stable with no downtime or outages. That is easier said than done in modern, complex data centers. Reliability of resources depends on highly skilled data center ops.
Top Stories
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Feature
27 Sep 2022
Top 9 most in-demand tech jobs of 2022
For job seekers in 2022, it's important to find a role that will be in high demand both now and in the coming years. Here are nine of the most promising jobs in technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2022
10 basic network management interview questions and answers
Job interviews should be a two-way conversation. Here are some common network management interview questions for both hiring managers and job applicants. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jan 2023
Intel revenue drops again; company to speed up next-gen chips
Dogged by stalled PC sales and tighter IT spending, Intel once again reported down revenues. CEO Pat Gelsinger highlighted progress and plans to remedy the issue. Continue Reading
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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
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Tutorial
25 Jan 2023
Everything you need to know about Linux man pages
Admins who aren't familiar with a command can use Linux man pages for better understanding. This tutorial outlines how to access Linux manuals and the value they provide. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2023
Dell's next-generation PowerEdge servers target AI inferencing
Dell has delivered versions of its PowerEdge servers using Intel's 4th Gen Xeon Scalable processors and AMD's EPYC chips. Continue Reading
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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
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Feature
22 Dec 2022
Quantum data centers might be the way of the future
Quantum computing has lots of potential for high compute applications. But the technology is still in the early stages, so it may be a while before more data centers adopt it. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Tutorial
30 Nov 2022
How to check an IP address in Linux
In a Linux system, IP addresses correspond with a public or private network. This tutorial outlines how to find public and private IP addresses with Linux commands. Continue Reading
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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
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News
14 Nov 2022
HPE's low-end supercomputers take aim at the AI market
HPE rolls out lower-cost supercomputers designed to handle complex AI-based workloads. Dell looks to meet its longtime rival in the middle with its highest-end HPC offering. Continue Reading
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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
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News
01 Nov 2022
HPE updates ProLiant servers bundled with GreenLake license
HPE added another software and service option with the new ProLiant servers featuring GreenLake, improved security software and Nextpoint services. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2022
Consider ethical technology issues with data center growth
Authors Harry Lewis and Ken Ledeen discuss ethical issues organizations should consider when expanding data center, data collection and technological capabilities. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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Tutorial
28 Sep 2022
How to use file server reporting in FSRM
File server reporting within File Server Resource Manager can help admins identify problems and then troubleshoot Windows servers. This tutorial outlines how to generate reports. Continue Reading
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News
28 Sep 2022
Intel expands Developer Cloud, updates GPUs, CPUs
Administrators who manage many users can go one step further toward streamlining license assignments by taking advantage of a new feature from Microsoft. Continue Reading
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News
21 Sep 2022
ServiceNow Now Platform 'Tokyo' delivers AI, automation
ServiceNow doubled down on its commitment to take the complexity out of digital transformation projects with a new version of its ServiceNow platform sporting new AI capabilities. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2022
Arm Neoverse roadmap targets enterprise infrastructure, cloud
Arm's roadmap for Neoverse V2 core is designed to handle 5G, HPC and edge workloads. Nvidia will incorporate the offering in its Grace data center chip in 2023. Continue Reading
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News
13 Sep 2022
IBM targets energy-saving mainframes at Linux users
IBMs new generation of Linux-based mainframes can significantly reduce energy use for companies willing to replace x86 servers with proprietary systems. Continue Reading
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News
07 Sep 2022
IBM iSeries subscription plan aims to simplify IT budgets
Following the lead of competitors including Dell and HPE, IBM has debuted an all-in-one subscription plan for iSeries that bundles hardware, software and technical services. Continue Reading
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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
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News
15 Aug 2022
Semiconductor companies face a long road back to growth
Even with government money soon headed their way, top-tier semiconductor companies will still have to deal with a range of challenges, from falling PC sales to material shortages. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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Opinion
26 Jul 2022
Quantum computing market sees new partnerships, progress
From Infineon and Oxford Ionics' partnership to Cambridge and Honeywell's merger and QCI's new Entropy Quantum Computing, explore the major new leaps in the quantum market. Continue Reading
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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
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Tip
19 Jul 2022
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
12 Jul 2022
Nvidia QODA platform integrates quantum, classical computing
Nvidia's QODA platform bridges the chasm between quantum and classical environments. It could set the stage for quantum applications leveraging existing GPU and AI technologies. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jul 2022
IBM debuts low-end Power10 servers, pay-as-you-go plan
IBM's new line of lower-end Power servers packs more processing power for smaller IT shops to deliver AI services faster, with a pay-as-you-go plan. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jul 2022
Create file server screens and quotas in FSRM
File Server Resource Manager can help data center admins keep track of what files get stored on their servers and how much space users take up. Learn to use key FSRM features. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2022
HPE GreenLake achieves everything as a service
The latest version of HPE GreenLake has realized the vision of everything as a service, although customers are still figuring out the new way to consume infrastructure. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2022
HPE GreenLake updates aim for public cloud-like simplicity
HPE GreenLake has been simplified to feel more like a public cloud while making management of VMs across hybrid clouds more consistent. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2022
New HPE ProLiant servers with Arm target energy savings
The new HPE ProLiant system incorporates the Ampere Altra and Ampere Altra Max cloud-native processors with the goal of energy and cost savings. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2022
Words to go: Learn basic Linux terminology
What is a distro? What does swappiness mean? How are Xen and KVM different from one another? Familiarize yourself with basic Linux terminology for beginner users. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jun 2022
Understand the rise in leaf-spine architecture
Leaf-spine networks can help cut costs, reduce carbon footprints and optimize network traffic for data centers. Learn why this network architecture is on the rise. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Jun 2022
Notes from Lenovo's ISG analyst summit
Lenovo is more than just a PC company. In its recent analyst summit, the company revealed its goals with AI, edge, cloud services, HCI as well as growth in foreign markets. Continue Reading
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News
17 Jun 2022
Broadcom's acquire-and-axe history concerns VMware users
VMware users are taking a wait-and-see stance on the Broadcom acquisition, keeping their fingers crossed that Broadcom remains committed to investing in innovation. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2022
Quantinuum quantum systems now support parallel operations
Quantinuum has added parallel processing capabilities to its H1-1 quantum system making it more suitable for solving complex tasks involving cybersecurity and optimization. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Jun 2022
SUSECON 2022 highlights include container management, edge
SUSECON featured several key product launches and trends, including business-critical Linux, containers and the edge. But how will SUSE impact the market? Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Jun 2022
What's the current state of quantum computing?
As quantum computing comes closer to being a reality, learn how this style of computing can coexist with traditional computing. Discover major players and key use cases. Continue Reading
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News
26 May 2022
Broadcom buys VMware in a $61B acquisition deal
As part of the deal, Broadcom Software Group will rebrand and operate as VMware, combining its existing infrastructure and security software into VMware's portfolio. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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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
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News
10 May 2022
IBM pledges to push boundaries in quantum computer roadmap
IBM revised its quantum computing roadmap with a 4,000-qubit system by 2025 and unveiled its Modular Quantum Computing initiative to support multiprocessor systems. Continue Reading
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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
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News
03 May 2022
Dell to ship all-NVMe version of VxRail for Project Monterey
Dell plans to ship an all-NVMe version of VxRail that will be the first hyper-converged system to work with VMware's Project Monterey, scheduled for release this summer. Continue Reading
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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
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News
03 May 2022
IBM spruces up iSeries with cloud app dev tools
IBM's new version of the iSeries OS is tightly integrated with OpenShift and includes new tools to help iSeries developers modernize legacy apps for the cloud. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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Feature
29 Apr 2022
Break down types of data center storage
Data centers should consider alternate varieties of storage for different uses. Explore hybrid storage arrays, virtual storage, cloud storage and on-premises architecture. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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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
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Tip
25 Apr 2022
How to set up a MySQL database in Linux
Learn to prepare for a SQL-based Linux database, create a new database and create database users with permissions. This enables you to work with many other services. Continue Reading
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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
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Tip
07 Apr 2022
Advice for data centers looking to change operating systems
When you swap out a data center's primary OS, first, consider the purpose of your replacement OS and its optimal workloads. Then, you can create an OS migration plan. Continue Reading
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News
05 Apr 2022
New IBM Z mainframe blunts quantum cyber attacks
Looking to compete with AI-based supercomputer vendors, IBM unveiled a Z mainframe armed with new AI features and security that deflects attacks launched from quantum computers. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Apr 2022
Disaggregated HCI solves compute, storage, network scalability
Despite the deployment and cost advantages of hyper-converged infrastructures, learn how disaggregated HCI can overcome compute, storage and network resource scalability issues. Continue Reading
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News
31 Mar 2022
Intel acquires Granulate to boost cloud workload speeds
To improve performance of workloads spanning multiple clouds and on-premises environments, Intel acquired Granulate Cloud Solutions, specialists in autonomous optimization tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2022
Discover disaster recovery and backup for edge networks
Proper backup and DR at the edge requires an awareness of the specific challenges edge devices present, and appropriate plans and tooling to help ease management. Continue Reading
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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
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News
23 Mar 2022
ServiceNow adds new RPA features to San Diego release
Doubling down on its RPA initiative, ServiceNow unveiled the San Diego version of its Now Platform that contains an RPA Hub and a complete overhaul of the product's interface. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2022
FlexPod XCS brings cloud capabilities to data centers
FlexPod XCS, the latest NetApp and Cisco converged infrastructure appliance, expands support for hybrid cloud environments with hyperscaler integrations. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2022
Nvidia beefs up its line of AI supercomputers, chips
Nvidia rolls out a new GPU architecture, supercomputers and chips that in concert will aid developers in creating the hardware foundation for the next generation of AI applications and services. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2022
Intel's aggressive processor roadmap has some bumps ahead
Intel is optimistic its processor roadmap can put the company back on top, but the company faces the challenging prospect of balancing short-term costs with long-term competitiveness. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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Tip
10 Mar 2022
8 things to know when switching from Windows to Linux
Switching to Linux from Windows can present new challenges for beginner Linux admins. Here are eight tips to keep in mind when adopting a Linux OS if you've only used Windows. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Mar 2022
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
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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
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News
03 Mar 2022
Nutanix revenue increases, driven by hybrid cloud adoption
Benefiting from the growing user adoption of hybrid clouds and a significant increase in digital transformation projects, Nutanix second-quarter revenue jumped 19%. Continue Reading
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News
02 Mar 2022
Kyndryl revenue slides, company lays out plans for growth
IBM spinoff Kyndryl reported revenue was down in 2021, but expects three cloud partnerships and a focus on growing markets to change that. Continue Reading
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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
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Feature
22 Feb 2022
11 key considerations prior to a data center upgrade
When you upgrade your data center, know the 11 key steps you must take to ensure neat migrations, good availability, continued security and limited downtime. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Feb 2022
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
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News
16 Feb 2022
Intel expands chip-making capacity with Tower acquisition
Intel continues its aggressive push in the processor market by purchasing Tower Semiconductor, which makes chips for a variety of consumer and industrial products. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2022
Nutanix streamlines its HCI, cloud portfolio for ease of use
Nutanix has slimmed down its portfolio by repackaging its HCI and cloud platforms to include support for VMs and containers in private data centers and public clouds. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Feb 2022
The top hyper-converged systems and composable infrastructure of 2021
These Products of the Year winners offer the flexibility and scalability that make hyper-converged systems an excellent choice for companies of any size. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2022
IBM Z as a service brings mainframes closer to hybrid clouds
Responding to demands to modernize mainframe environments, IBM delivered its Z as a service and a new software stack that brings mainframes and hybrid clouds closer together. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Feb 2022
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
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Feature
10 Feb 2022
How can data centers support a remote workplace?
Remote work presents a variety of challenges to businesses. Here's what an organization can do to provide adequate resources for its at-home workers and admins. Continue Reading
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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
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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
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Tip
26 Jan 2022
How to choose the right DCIM tool for better configuration
DCIM tools can ensure your data center runs efficiently by keeping track of hardware, software and the physical environment. Here's what you should consider before choosing one. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jan 2022
Protect your data center from ransomware attacks
Consider how best to protect your data center from ransomware attackers: Keep safe, air-gapped backups; consolidate your infrastructure and prioritize critical assets. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2022
Nvidia Arm deal another step closer to -- death?
Negotiations of the long-awaited Nvidia acquisition of Arm Ltd. have come to a halt with rumors of Nvidia telling partners they can't come to agreement on a deal. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jan 2022
Evaluate GPU vs. CPU for data analytics tasks
As data analytics becomes more commonplace, you might wonder what processor best suits such complex tasks. The CPU and GPU specialize in different tasks but excel together. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2022
IBM hybrid cloud strategy driving revenue growth
IBM revenue for its hybrid cloud business showed little indication of slowing down, with the company reporting sales of $6.2 billion for the fourth quarter and $20 billion for 2021. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2022
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
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Feature
18 Jan 2022
Hybrid cloud strategy blends public, private cloud benefits
When opting for a hybrid cloud infrastructure during digital transformation, migrating applications and workloads to the cloud doesn't necessarily dictate vacating the premises. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
13 Jan 2022
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
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Feature
12 Jan 2022
Managed services benefits ease enterprise IT security woes
At a time when threats to network and data security are on the rise, MSSPs can help overwhelmed enterprises confront cloud configuration, risk reduction and regulatory compliance. Continue Reading