Jamieson Lee Hill, November 3rd, 2023

Choosing a colocation data centre to partner with can be quite daunting. There are so many factors to reflect on. Protecting your data and systems is paramount, so you need to be sure of the colocation data centre you are partnering with. Here at IP House, we have compiled a list of useful questions to help you in this process and we also explain how IP House supports companies with a number of factors.

8 questions for choosing a colocation data centre

This is our list of 8 questions to help you decide:

• Is the agreement flexible to meet my needs?
•  Does the facility support my power needs, current and future?
•  Is the facility network carrier neutral? Or does it offer a variety of network carriers?
•  Is the security up to my standards?
•  Does my enterprise business have a plan for handling transitional costs?
•  Is this data centre scalable for future growth?
•  Does the DC have the practical functionality for our engineer’s needs?  Location, covered parking for easy load/unloading, build suites and meeting rooms, along with kitchen facilities?
•  Will the data centre support my business growth plans and if required be adapted to my model of engagement with my clients?

If the answer is mostly yes to the 8 questions, then you have a sure sign that this is a data centre worth partnering with.

How IP House supports companies and the factors involved

As companies increase their digital infrastructure, finding the right colocation data centre becomes crucial. Data centres have to meet the specific needs of clients in these following areas:

●     flexibility

●     power

●     network connectivity

●     location

●     security

●     scalability

●     practical functionality.

Flexibility to Meet Your Needs

IP House understands the bespoke requirements of different sectors and offers tailored solutions to overcome their challenges. Whether you need a small storage to start or plan future scaling up, IP House provides flexible options to scale your infrastructure. Having the extra capacity for expansion at your fingertips is a major factor.

“The average colocation contract is between three and five years and it will save a lot of time and money, not to mention the effort and downtime involved in having to change providers, if you choose a colocation facility that can offer the extra physical capacity, power and cooling you may need in future.”

Source: Steve Bebber, Customer Think.com, Jan 2023

Power Capacity and Future Readiness

It is essential to ensure that a data centre can support your current power needs and also having the capacity for future growth. IP House operates a purpose-built data centre with a robust power infrastructure that can meet the high demands of businesses. With state-of-the-art power systems and redundancy measures in place, IP House guarantees uninterrupted operations and reliable power supply. This is essential for any business to make sure staff and clients have continuity of online services,

“Many data centers may provide redundant equipment, such as UPSs and generators, to power IT equipment and support facility equipment in a grid failure. They also may have additional chillers and water pumps to serve as backup for cooling equipment.”

Source: Elementcritical.com, 2023

Network Connectivity Options

IP House is a carrier-neutral data centre, providing a wide range of network connectivity options. This allows businesses to choose the network provider that best suits their requirements in terms of performance, latency, and redundancy. Our London Dockland location means we have excellent connectivity to major network providers and internet exchanges.

“Interconnections allow for low latency and a high-performance network, as well as access to multiple providers. This provides more redundancy, scalability, and flexibility. It also means that you can quickly adjust your network needs to accommodate sudden changes in demand.”

Source: 515Engine.com, 2023

Ideal Location for Data

Location plays a vital role in choosing a colocation data centre. IP House's location in London's Docklands makes it highly accessible for companies in education, fintech, and gaming. This prime location provides easy access to international fibre routes and enables low-latency connections to global markets. Additionally, the facility is situated away from flood zones and major transportation routes, ensuring the safety and security of your data.

Robust Security Measures

Security is a top priority when it comes to data centres. IP House understands the importance of protecting sensitive information and employs stringent security measures. The facility features multi-layered physical security systems, including 24/7 surveillance, access control systems, and biometric authentication. Furthermore, IP House follows industry best practices and complies with relevant regulations. Strict security measures are vital for every data centre.

“Consider finding a colocation provider who keeps a strict list of people who are authorized to access your assets and is controlled by electronic cabinet door locks and card readers. You can also look for a facility where closed circuit TV (CCTV) cameras or webcams are used so you can monitor who has access to your equipment at all times.”

Source: Sunbirddcim.com, 2023

Seamless Transition and Scalability

When considering a colocation data centre, it is crucial to evaluate the transitional costs and whether the facility can support your business's growth plans. IP House works closely with enterprise businesses to ensure a seamless transition with minimal disruption. Additionally, the facility offers scalable solutions that can accommodate your evolving needs. IP House provides the flexibility to scale up or down as required.

Customisable Engagement

IP House focuses on supporting your business growth and adapting to your model of engagement with clients. IP House offers customisable options to meet your specific requirements. We tailor your data centre environment and infrastructure to align with your bespoke needs.

Reflections

Choosing a colocation data centre requires careful consideration. As expert Steven Beber advises,

“A reliable colocation provider will have a proven track record and excellent reviews. Take the time to thoroughly research what others have to say as choosing where you are going to store your servers and data is not a decision to take lightly.”

Source: Steve Bebber, Customer Think.com, Jan 2023

IP House London has a proven track record of supporting your business with reliable systems and staff. By partnering with IP House, your critical data is housed in a secure and reliable environment with the potential for future growth.

 Want to know more about how IP House can support your business? Fill out the form below! Let's talk!