Data center design and facilities
Data center design includes continuous power and cooling for IT equipment, site security and energy use. Data center facilities are specialized for a task and must operate in concert with the IT organization. New trends in data center design and construction include modular and containerized builds, as well as DCIM to track energy use.
Top Stories
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Feature
07 Dec 2023
5 hyper-converged infrastructure trends for 2024
Hyper-converged infrastructure is rapidly changing. Read what HCI has to offer and what projected growth it may have within the next couple years. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Dec 2023
Top 5 colocation providers of 2024
Colocation companies offer a wide range of facilities and services that can help reduce costs of managing data centers. Compare providers to see which is best for your organization. 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
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
26 Oct 2023
Guide to lift and shift data center migration
The lift-and-shift approach moves an app and its data from one environment to another. Understanding what's involved can help a data center admin decide on a migration approach. 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
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Tip
18 Sep 2023
7 common data center migration challenges to avoid
Admins should consider seven common data center migration challenges upfront to save money, prevent data loss and avoid delays during the migration process. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Sep 2023
Guide to data center migration types
Businesses that rely on physical and cloud storage need to use data migration to simplify their infrastructure and choose from three major types to accommodate specific needs. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
31 Jul 2023
How to configure SELinux for applications and services
Admins need to follow six steps to configure SELinux properly to run applications and services. This tutorial walks you through how to configure the security system. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jul 2023
Data center heat reuse: How to make the most of excess heat
Data center heat doesn't need to go to waste. As part of a sustainability strategy, explore ways to put the heat your data center produces to work, and consider heat reuse. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2023
What is the best OS for Docker?
Admins that want to run Docker containers can choose from Linux distros, including Ubuntu Core, RancherOS and others. Compare options for Docker OSes. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jul 2023
Data center cooling challenges and how to solve them
Data centers that are not properly cooled can see equipment work inefficiently or become damaged. Learn some common cooling challenges and assess ways to solve them. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Jun 2023
Reimaging, innovating, securing cloud-native at SUSECON 2023
At SUSECON 2023, SUSE announced cloud-native AI-based observability with Opni and alluded to more announcements this year. Leaders emphasized cloud-native tech and modernization. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jun 2023
Data center tiers and why they matter for uptime
Organizations should consider data center tiers of colocation providers or for their own data centers based on their uptime needs. Examine the differences among the four tiers. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jun 2023
Explore Red Hat's bring-your-own-subscription model for RHEL
Many organizations use pay-as-you-go models with public cloud providers to run their Red Hat products in the cloud. Explore how bring-your-own-subscription differs. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2023
Strategies to work toward data center decarbonization
Global temperatures are rising, and organizations can do their part by decarbonizing their data centers. Examine ways to cut back on data center carbon emissions. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2023
Compare two Linux security modules: SELinux vs. AppArmor
Use SELinux or AppArmor to protect Linux servers, but examine the differences between them. AppArmor is easier to use but does not give admins as much control as SELinux. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2023
Data center redundancy: The basics
Downtime can cost businesses thousands, and redundancy is one way to minimize disruptions. Assess uptime requirements when building redundancy in data center facilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2023
Modular network design benefits and approaches
Modular network design is a strategic way for enterprises to group network building blocks in order to streamline network maintenance, additions and troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 May 2023
Differences between Green Globes vs. LEED for data centers
Consider Green Globes and LEED certifications when building green data centers. Learn the differences in how the assessments are done, the costs and documentation needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 May 2023
6 data center migration best practices
Data center migrations can be a complex process. Use best practices when migrating a data center to ensure maximum uptime, avoid data loss and stay on schedule. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2023
Navigate Energy Star data center standard and certification
Organizations can use the Energy Star data center standard and certified assets to be more energy efficient. Consider Energy Star certification to preserve capital and save energy. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 May 2023
Explore the impact of quantum computing on cryptography
When quantum computers become available, lots of encryption types will be vulnerable. Learn why, and what's being researched, to navigate post-quantum cryptography. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 May 2023
10 companies building quantum computers
Many companies big and small are building quantum computing capabilities in the software and hardware space. Here's what some offer and what they're building for the future. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
27 Apr 2023
How to install Cockpit for Linux
Linux admins will need to use some of these commands to install Cockpit and configure firewalls. Admins can also connect to one or more servers through Cockpit via these steps. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2023
Examine the benefits of data center consolidation
Many data centers have too many assets. Data center consolidation can help organizations make better use of assets, cut costs, and improve security and compliance. Continue Reading
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Opinion
20 Mar 2023
App modernization, mainframe, microservices: IBM event recap
At the recent IBM Infrastructure Analyst Event, IBM announced advances in IBM zSystems for AI, app architecture and other areas to help businesses achieve their goals. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2023
Will data centers become obsolete?
Many organizations want to simplify or scale down their data centers -- but they won't disappear. Admins can examine as-a-service options and cloud to offload some applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Mar 2023
ASHRAE standard 90.4 updates emphasize green energy
New addenda to ASHRAE 90.4 simplify mechanical load component calculations and modify the definition of UPS, among other changes. Use the updates to guide green data center design. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2023
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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Tip
24 Feb 2023
A primer on hyperscale data centers
Hyperscale data centers can hold thousands of servers and process much more data than an enterprise facility. However, they can be difficult to build and maintain. Continue Reading
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News
16 Feb 2023
IBM drops from top spot in patents, surpassed by Samsung
IBM lost its title as patent king to Samsung, which had more than 8,500 patents approved in 2022. One reason cited is IBM's transformation to a software and services company. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2023
Explore 7 future potential quantum computing uses
Organizations stand to benefit from the compute power of quantum computing as it develops. The tech has potential uses in supply chains, financial modeling and other areas. 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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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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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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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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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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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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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
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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
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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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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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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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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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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News
08 Feb 2022
Nvidia, Arm deal fails after heightened regulatory scrutiny
Nvidia's acquisition of Arm Ltd. faced its share of regulatory hurdles, but the global semiconductor chip shortage prompted increased scrutiny of the chip-related deal. 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
04 Jan 2022
Foster health and safety in the post-pandemic data center
Data centers adapted to a new set of circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. As work and the pandemic continue to change, here's how data centers can continue to evolve. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2021
What you should consider when right-sizing a data center
How does an organization decide the appropriate size and density for its data centers? Consider factors such as rack layout and available power first. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Dec 2021
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
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Tip
29 Nov 2021
Cable management software enhances documentation, visibility
Even a timeworn networking discipline like cabling can undergo a renaissance. See how cable management software helps organizations visualize network connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2021
Best practices for data center risk assessment
Data centers contain risks such as height, environmental and electrical hazards. Keep your staff safe by assessing the level of risk and creating a comprehensive safety plan. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Nov 2021
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
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Answer
04 Nov 2021
What are the 6 components of structured cabling?
The six components of structured cabling are Entrance Facilities, Equipment Room, Backbone Cabling, Telecommunications Room, Horizontal Cabling and Work Area. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2021
Considerations for sustainable data center design
To design a green, sustainable data center, consider methods to improve energy conservation and efficiency. Then, look into green -- or greener -- energy source alternatives. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Sep 2021
Pros and cons of on-site power generation for data centers
Organizations considering a move to on-site power generation should weigh drawbacks -- such as cost -- against benefits, including sustainability and increased control over power. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Sep 2021
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
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Tip
02 Sep 2021
Learn the difference between SMP vs. MPP
Learn the differences between the main modes of multiprocessing: SMP, AMP and MPP. Each has a distinct use case that makes it suited for different data centers and organizations. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Aug 2021
Data center facility management team-building checklist
A good data center facilities team and strategy can ensure the rest of your company runs smoothly. Here are the steps you should take when putting that team together. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Aug 2021
Explore hot and cold aisle containment for your data center
Explore hot aisle and cold aisle containment for the data center, a practice that can reduce energy costs by helping better manage environmental factors. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jul 2021
Data center contactless tech beyond the pandemic
No-touch tech like haptics and LiDAR became commonplace during the coronavirus pandemic, but such technology can increase demands on the data centers supporting it. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jul 2021
What does a data center facility manager do?
Data center facility managers are responsible for the data center at large -- from the outside of the building to the infrastructure it houses. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jul 2021
Does your data center need a smart PDU?
A smart PDU can help you monitor and manage power flow more efficiently than a traditional PDU. Here's what you should consider before deciding whether to adopt. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jul 2021
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
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Feature
13 Apr 2021
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
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Feature
19 Mar 2021
Facilities planners, managers look to cloud enterprise platforms
AI, analytics, collaboration software and advanced HVAC technology help reconfigure and manage safe and flexible workplace environments for employees returning to the office. Continue Reading
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Guide
19 Mar 2021
Workforce strategy and planning in times of crisis
HR, IT and facilities managers are focused on reconfiguring workplaces and the technologies that ensure the safety, productivity and privacy of employees returning to the office. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2021
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
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Tip
24 Feb 2021
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
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Feature
19 Feb 2021
Nvidia acquisition of Arm faces industry, regulatory hurdles
Nvidia's acquisition of Arm Ltd. could change the chipmaker landscape and is reportedly raising industry and regulatory eyebrows. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2021
Modular UPS systems provide flexible power management options
UPSes can provide backup power scalability and efficiency. Admins should consider modular setups for extra redundancy, mixed capacity modules and cost savings. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jan 2021
Get a template to estimate server power consumption per rack
Admins can struggle with power consumption estimation as infrastructure gets more complex. The kW-per-rack metric can help provide an accurate calculation of server power use. Continue Reading
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News
23 Dec 2020
Data center market M&A deals hit new high in 2020
This year proved to be a banner year for data center mergers and acquisitions with 113 deals valued at over $30 billion, a pace that is unlikely to slow in 2021. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Dec 2020
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
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News
16 Nov 2020
Japan named HPC leader as world races to exascale
Exascale computers are due to arrive in 2021 in the U.S. and China. Developers are being urged to make these systems user-friendly and accessible. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
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
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Tip
28 Oct 2020
Mini PCs for business offer improved performance, reduced costs
Mini PCs are a low-cost hardware alternative to servers that enable organizations to maintain maximum data center features and capabilities in remote office locations. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2020
A mechanical refrigeration system primer for admins
Mechanical cooling is a necessity to keep data centers efficient year-round. The system type you use depends on the refrigerant, number of heat exchanges and airflow requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2020
Take control of Hyper-V power management for cost efficiency
Organizations can better manage Hyper-V power consumption through various means, such as using Hyper-V power plans, server cores and SCVMM capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2020
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
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Feature
16 Mar 2020
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
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Tip
27 Jan 2020
A guide to data center maintenance outsourcing
Data centers have a lot of moving mechanical parts to maintain. It's beneficial to leave electrical and fire system upkeep to the professionals instead of doing it all in-house. Continue Reading