BandwidthBar

A data centre (also known as a server farm) is a very important component of many businesses IT department. Most businesses that can call themselves ‘medium enterprises’ or larger and even a few ‘small enterprises’ have their own data centre to handle all the electronic information that needs to be accounted for in the company. But just what is a data centre supposed to do?

 

A data centre, at its most basic, is a collection of computer systems and related components that include redundant and backup power supplies, various network connections and environmental controls. It is, in essence, a hub of computing energy and power. It can be a small as a single computer or as large as an entire room filled with servers and other accessories.

 

The main function of a data centre is to handle the core business and operational data and functions of an organisation. At its simplest a data centre can handle only the operations of a given data centre but most data centres run a number of hosts that control useful and important components such as: databases, file servers, application servers and middleware – to name a few. Some organisations also use their data centres to make backups. There is also a line of businesses that erect and maintain data centres for the sole purpose of allowing an organisation to have an off-site backup in case of an emergency.

 

Data centres are most concerned with the continuation of business. Organisations rely on data centres to ensure that applications and components are always available. If the data centre is unavailable operations may cease and the organisation will lose business. Therefore one of the most important aspects of the data centre is to offer reliable infrastructure throughout.

 

Another important feature of the data centre is to provide security for the data that is stored and communicated by the data centre. This involves both electronic security in terms of encryption as well as physical security to prevent physical theft and vandalism. Data centres should be as secure as possible to prevent any loss of data or operation.

 

Data centres are becoming increasingly important for a range of businesses and organisations. It helps to centralise the operations of an organisation and provides ample support and security for the IT concerns of a business or organisation. While many businesses are able to set up their own data centres many organisations rely on outside firms to set up the data centre.

 

Set up and maintained correctly, data centres can be a boon to any business.

<< Back