Data Center Services Checklist

When considering a data center services provider or a disaster recovery location, your selection needs to be an educated one.  Your data center services provider will be an extension of your IT team and must be a trusted partner.  This checklist identifies some of the more important features to take into consideration when selecting a data center services provider:

• Does the provider own the facility where the data center is built?                                                      
• What Data Center Certifications have been obtained – SAS 70 Type II?
• How many years has your provider been in business?
• On staff Engineering experience / Financial Viability?
• Age of the Data Center and its equipment?
• Does the facility have redundant power?
• UPS Details – A bus / B bus configuration, run time
• Backup Generator – size, redundant architecture, fuel type, run time, fuel suppliers
• Backup Generator Test Schedule – type of tests performed, frequency of tests   
• Type of Fire Suppression?  Is it water free?
• How secure is the facility?  Do Biometrics, Video Surveillance and other security measures exist?
• Is the provider monitoring their PUE? 
• Number of backbone providers?  There should be at least two (2).
• Do multiple (redundant) points of egress exist for the providers accessing the facility?
• HVAC – 2(N+1) configuration? / Cooling density?
• Raised Floor height?  Is it at least 16”?
• How is power provided and invoiced to the Customer?
• Cabinet Specs?  Are the cabinets able to accommodate your equipment?
• Is facility monitored 24/7/365?
• Are “Remote Hands and Eyes” support available?
• Is the data center accessible 24/7/365?
• What is the Uptime history?
• What is the Uptime guarantee – SLA?
• Are Disaster Recovery Solutions offered?
• Are customer workstations available?

These features are important when identifying a competent data center services provider.  Although this is a good starting point, it is still a good idea to consult with an expert.  EarthLink has been providing industry leading solutions for over 15 years.  Contact our Data Center Services Professionals to make sure you are on the right path to choosing the best possible partner.