Why Interconnection Is the Key to Digital Business Success

Data center interconnection is what lets a growing business run across several sites without rebuilding its infrastructure each time. As storage demands climb, digital businesses need solutions that are flexible, secure and able to scale.  Interconnection delivers that through colocation, applications management, networking support, and managed hosting, interconnectivity gives growing businesses which keeps storage and integration seamless while protecting critical infrastructure.

What Is Data Center Interconnection?

Interconnection refers to a network of data systems links data systems physically and over the internet, which lets enterprises share information and resources across many servers and locations.  

Connectivity and networking services let enterprises absorb more user traffic while keeping costs down.  On-site storage is expensive, and since it rarely scales, growth stalls the moment you need more space. Once several systems are linked over a network, you gain both flexibility and security, even when data demands keep shifting.  

There are five key benefits to utilizing a connective network for data storage and colocation:

1. Shared Resources.  A network of multiple data centers shares information quickly and securely, whatever the demand.  These systems can respond dynamically by offering expandable space within a network.
2. Scalability.  Cross-connected data centers offer fully scalable hosting and bandwidth. Businesses get resources as needed, at a fraction of on-site cost.
3. Reliability.  The nature of third-party storage and network systems allows easy creation of backups and redundancy protocols.  Carrier-neutral facilities keep service uninterrupted if the primary carrier hits new regulation, management changes or other surprises.
4. Monitoring. Cross-connected services ensure optimal traffic flow management through system monitoring tools.
5. Data security and recovery.  Using multiple providers and servers at once limits the risk of total data loss after a failure or disaster.

Not All Interconnection Is Equal

The expanding market for data centers has led to a growing number of providers around the world.  Speed and reliability should top every provider’s goals, but there are other factors in finding a reliable interconnected data system. Getting the full IT benefit depends on picking the right operator. Look for strong technology, tight security, current equipment and real carrier relationships.  The criteria for selecting a provider should also include:

1. Compliance.  Data centers that many agencies trust tend to be more reliable.  Some examples of compliance certifications are HIPAA, SSAE16, NIST, and SOC 2 Type II.
2. Security.  Advanced technologies and disaster mitigation systems separate top quality data centers from those that expose clients to more risk.  A responsible data center will have military-grade security and surveillance, Category 5 hurricane resistance, and reliable redundant power. It should also have gas-based inert fire suppression and advanced Smart-Grid redundant cooling.
3. Support.  On-site IT professionals and executives need to rely on customer support that never sleeps.  Data centers with industry-leading support teams respond at a moment’s notice, 24/7/365, whatever the severity.

Related reading

• Colocation at Volico

Ready to talk about cross connects?

Discover how Volico can help you with your Interconnection and Cross Connect needs.
• Call: (305) 735-8098 • Chat with a member of our team to discuss which solution best fits your needs.