It’s always best to ask questions before you sign a contract, not just for legal reasons, but also for practical reasons. When signing with a colocation provider, by asking the right questions, you can make the best choices for your IT needs. Some of the key questions to ask before entering into a colocation contract are:
What levels of physical security does the data center provide?
The data center should restrict access to all its devices. Data centers should have protocols that let only authorized people reach the building or rooms holding your equipment. Direct access to servers, storage devices, and other technology should stay under lock and key. The facility should station security guards, run visual monitoring systems, and use biometrics. Your authorized users can carry a computerized access card.
What does the provider use to power the equipment and what steps are in place to get your systems back online as quickly as possible in an emergency?
A power outage can corrupt your data. Customers can move to competitors if the system goes down. Colocation providers should be able to explain what resources they use to restore operations quickly. Ask specifically about the redundancy schemes they have in place.
What is the layout and infrastructure of the facility?
Ask providers how big their cabinets and cages are and how much equipment they hold. Find out what type of flooring they use and what protocols cover a fire. These details help you understand exactly how the facility stores your equipment.
Does the colocation provider offer Service Level Agreements (SLAs)? If so, what types and what services do they offer?
Are power, bandwidth, or network SLAs offered? If the provider doesn’t offer an SLA, ask why not. What are the financial terms, and what services does the SLA actually include?
What happens in the case of a natural disaster?
Does the center have equipment to handle hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes? If so, ask how they equip it. The provider should also explain the recovery procedures they use if a natural disaster strikes.
Some additional questions to ask the colocation provider before signing any contract are:
- How does their fiber connectivity work? Can they handle a rapid increase in demand?
- Is the location company providing the bandwidth, or does the business have to arrange for connection?
- Is remote hand service available around the clock? Are technicians on site at all times to handle any emergencies that arise? Do the technicians understand your products and hardware?
- Does the location provider have any necessary data center compliance certificates?
- Are the backup services on location or at another site?
- What are Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) solutions in place?
Get answers to your questions about colocation services now
Colocation can save your company a lot of money on capital expenses, utility services, security, and physical floor space, depending on the arrangements you make. When done correctly, colocation protects your IT services and helps your company grow.
Discover how Volico can help you with your Data Center Colocation needs.
• Call: (305) 735-8098
• Chat with a member of our team to discuss which solution best fits your needs.
