In the digital era, data centres have become the beating heart of modern organisations. These technological complexes, housing servers, storage systems, and networking equipment, are much more than mere facilities: they represent the backbone that supports companies' digital transformation and ensures their competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic market.
The importance of these strategic assets is evident in the numbers: according to a recent Mordor Intelligence report, the global data centre services market will reach $127 billion by 2024, with projections suggesting an increase to $272 billion by 2029, at an annual compound growth rate of 16.38%.
This remarkable growth reflects an undeniable reality: the acceleration of digital transformation processes within organisations, which in most cases decide to migrate to the cloud to enhance their operations and maintain a competitive edge.
“As companies migrate to cloud environments due to their flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, the demand for reliable data centre facilities to support these services has increased,” the Mordor Intelligence report emphasises.
In this context, one model is gaining considerable traction: shared data centres or “colocation.” This model allows companies to rent space in state-of-the-art facilities where they can host their technology infrastructure alongside other organisations, maximising resources and optimising costs.
Key Steps Towards the Goal
Migrating to a shared data centre is a path that requires meticulous planning and specialised guidance.
Organisations must carefully evaluate critical factors such as the geographical location of the centre—which directly impacts application latency—facility certification levels (TIER), implemented security policies, and the service level agreements (SLAs) offered.
It is also essential to consider future scalability, available connectivity options, and the provider's commitment to environmental sustainability.
In this scenario, partnering with an experienced technology ally makes the difference between a successful transition and a problematic implementation.
The tech companies within United VARs, the prestigious SAP partner alliance, excel in this crucial role, providing not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of business needs.
These specialists guide organisations throughout the entire process: from the initial requirements assessment and the selection of the most suitable provider to detailed migration planning and ongoing resource optimisation.
Advantages That Make a Difference
The benefits of this model are numerous.
One advantage lies in that, by sharing resources among several companies, organisations gain access to cutting-edge technologies that would otherwise be costly to implement, such as redundant power and connectivity infrastructures or high-performance network equipment.
In terms of security, these centres implement multi-layered protocols, including biometric controls, 24/7 surveillance, advanced fire protection systems, and safeguards against both physical and cyber threats.
Sustainability is another key pillar: shared centres lead in adopting eco-efficient technologies, from free-cooling systems to the use of renewable energy sources, allowing for a carbon footprint reduction of up to 50% compared to traditional facilities.
The model's inherent scalability allows companies to adjust their technological resources according to business needs, without incurring significant capital investments.
Trends on the Horizon
As the adoption of shared data centres accelerates, innovative technological trends are also emerging, reshaping the landscape.
One of the most significant developments is the rise of edge computing, which brings data processing and storage closer to the points where data is generated, reducing latency and improving the response of critical applications.
Shared data centre providers are rapidly adapting to this reality, offering edge solutions that complement their centralised facilities.
Another key trend is the growing integration between shared data centres and hybrid cloud services. Companies are seeking a balanced strategy that allows them to leverage the benefits of public cloud computing alongside the reliability and control of on-premise infrastructure. Colocation centres position themselves as the ideal link, enabling seamless transitions to hybrid models.
Additionally, automation and artificial intelligence are transforming the management of these technological complexes. Advanced monitoring and real-time optimisation systems significantly reduce energy consumption, while fault prediction and dynamic resource allocation improve operational efficiency.
As these capabilities expand, shared data centres will gain in agility and sustainability.
Staying Ahead
The adoption of shared data centres is more than a trend: it is a strategic shift transforming the global business landscape.
In a world where agility and technological efficiency are imperative for success, this model emerges as a solution that allows organisations to stay at the forefront without compromising resources.
The future of corporate technology infrastructure is shared; organisations that recognise and embrace this reality will be better positioned to face tomorrow's challenges.
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