Data center
interconnection is one of the most important qualities to look for in a data
center provider. As massive amounts of data are managed, distributed and
exchanged across the globe, the nature of a successful business often relies on
the stability of its IT infrastructure. However, not all data centers are
created equal. The element of interconnection can add incredible value to a
colocation provider, creating a tailored solution for each customer and their
business’ requirements. So what is data center interconnection and
why does it matter?
Access
Data center interconnection provides access to multiple ISPs – which
are especially crucial if the customer is selling globally. By having access to
many service providers, international customers are able to exhibit a strong
presence both domestically and worldwide, and in turn are able to expand their
customer base and enhance business operations.
Additionally,
data centers with an array of connectivity options often allow direct
access to their servers – which is instrumental in the case of an outage or
maintenance window for hardware and/or software.
Convenience
Data center interconnection providers also offer the benefit of a direct,
physical contact point between servers, providers, and customers. This
advantage is important because it allows you to not only navigate from point A
to point B, but to do so more quickly and with more flexibility than a
traditional provider. These qualities are essential for the execution of
everyday business operations.
Additionally,
the flexibility of an interconnected data center allows providers to
continually improve their services and offerings in order to meet customer
expectations. By eliminating data bottlenecks, interconnected providers are
able to establish a solid IT infrastructure that can be scaled indefinitely,
and – perhaps most importantly – can accommodate the consumer demand for
flexible, cost-efficient growth.
Interconnection
Carrier-neutrality is one of the most significant advantages of an
interconnected data center provider. By offering the ability to choose from
multiple carrier options, customers are able to manage one of the most critical
components of the purchasing journey – choice. The opportunity to select
between different colocation and interconnection providers, in order to suit
different business needs is essential because not every business is the same or
has the same needs. Carrier-neutral data centers aren’t restricted to one
service provider, and as such are able to provide the diversity and flexibility
to meet and outsource every unique business objective.
Pricing
In a traditional or non-carrier-neutral environment, businesses are only
allowed to one service option. This fixed structure can reap negative
consequences for the customer as they become subject to a variety of similarly
defined factors including limited bandwidth, high pricing, and a lack of
competition.
Interconnection
provides added value to your business in its affordance of choice; however –
this value does not necessarily reflect in a higher pricing structure. The risk
mitigation that multiple carrier options provide will benefit business
operations in the long run and will remain affordable as carriers vie for
business and are therefore incentivized to offer cost-efficient, high-quality
bandwidth.
Location
Facility location affects data center interconnection more than you might
expect. High-performance interconnects and access to quality networks are two
of the most vital considerations when selecting a colocation provider. However,
without a strategic location, these benefits can be compromised. Internet
exchange points overlap across the globe and different locations yield
different connectivity offerings depending on their positioning in these
pathways.
Businesses often
have a target audience for their product or service. Those looking to integrate
colocation into their customer strategy often have IT assets located in an area
that enables these goals. Selecting a facility that is located in an
interconnection hub will not only support your business goals, but will offer
additional advantages such as fiber diversity, extensive network choice and the
ability to interconnect to partners and clients across the world.
