If you want to retain full control of your web hosting hardware but don't have a data center in which to locate it, server colocation is an ideal solution. Server colocation providers supply data center space, connectivity and security, but servers and administration are typically not provided.
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Colocation is not for the faint of heart. It is only a suitable web hosting option if you have very specific technical requirements, and employ highly trained staff. In fact, server colocation is a hosting route chosen only by companies with:
· Very specific hardware requirements, such as hard-to-find servers, who therefore want to use their own hardware setup; · Highly complex hardware and network configuration needs; · A preference that their systems not be in full control of a third party.
Unlike managed Web hosting or even dedicated hosting, server colocation providers do not typically provide much technical support. On-site administrators can usually be contracted, however, to provide assistance when necessary. Colocation customers often retain them to take care of simple administrative tasks like re-booting servers, helping to configure new hardware, or investigating issues when a customer doesn't have time to visit the facility.
Choosing a colocation provider
In theory, a company could purchase a few shelves from a local hardware store, connect customers to a leased T1 line, and call itself a "colocation provider." And there are unscrupulous providers in the Web hosting business operating facilities not much better than that. As a result, it's important to always pay an on-site visit to a potential server colocation provider; if you're going to put your hardware in the hands of another company, you will want to ensure the hardware is in good, reliable hands.
Here are some things to look for when evaluating a company for server colocation:
The data center "specs"
A high-quality colocation provider will take every step necessary to make sure your servers stay online. Its data center will include gas-powered generators and power systems connected to separate circuits (in case of a power failure), raised floors, cooling systems and fire suppression systems.
Security
Gaining access to the server area itself should not be easy. Top-tier colocation providers keep intruders out through card access systems, on-site security and stringent policies that require visitors to be escorted.
Network connectivity
Your colocation provider should be serious about uptime. Multiple network connections with no single point of failure are a must. Networks should be monitored 24/7 by on-site staff.
While colocation provides more user control than other forms of Web hosting, you will still lack control when it comes to connectivity. You still face downtime should your colocation provider suffer a network outage. Some colocation providers offer "network neutral colocation," which allows you to make your own peering and bandwidth arrangements with other providers.
Rack and cage space
Good colocation providers always plan for the future. Make sure your provider has ample cage and rack space available should you ever need to expand. Many companies start out leasing rack space, only to discover they need a more complex configuration and migrating to full cages a year or two later. If you can't migrate because your provider has run out of space, moving to a new colocation provider won't be easy.
Remember, choosing to colocate your servers is a big decision. The initial effort to do so will be resource-intensive, the ongoing hardware requirements will be expensive, and ongoing support and administration will be required. Make sure you weigh all your options and find a server colocation provider that suits your needs; moving your hardware to a new provider will cause unnecessary headaches.
