Pros and Cons of Modular Data Centers

One of the newest innovations in data center technology is modularity, or modular data centers. This is the next generation of data centers, designed specifically to meet the needs of incremental, flexible expandability with better time to market and return on investment.

What is a modular data center? A modular data center is one that is pre-manufactured in the factory, sometimes with IT components such as servers, storage, but always with network, cooling, and power built-in. This data center can then be containerized and shipped to literally anywhere in the world and assembled on site in no time.

As it is with any paradigm shift, now comes the heated arguments on the real benefits a modular data center offers and when it is appropriate to use this solution versus the traditional data center.

Here are two factors to consider when choosing the type of data center most suited to your needs.

1. Emphasis on next generation design: A modular data center is designed with optimization balance and scale in mind where there is no issue of unused capacity. This is opportunity for a huge cost savings as you pay for expansion only when you really need it. The only three essentials that need to be provided at the time of deployment are a power connection, data connection and water connection.

2. The knowledge and expertise factor: One of the drawbacks of using a modular data center is that you may not be leveraging in-house and vendor knowledge about traditional data centers. Your responsibility and the onus of managing and customizing the data center is higher in a modular solution than in a traditional one, especially if you plan on hosting it on site, or managing it yourself.

Modular data center or not, the decision on which data center to use requires careful consideration. Need advice from professionals on the right decision for you? Contact us at https://lifelinedatacenters.com.

Alex Carroll

Managing Member at Lifeline Data Centers

Alex, co-owner, is responsible for all real estate, construction and mission critical facilities: hardened buildings, power systems, cooling systems, fire suppression, and environmentals. Alex also manages relationships with the telecommunications providers and has an extensive background in IT infrastructure support, database administration and software design and development. Alex architected Lifeline’s proprietary GRCA system and is hands-on every day in the data center.