
What's a Data Center?
The data center is a centralized location where a company's IT activities are managed. It's in charge of storing, managing and distributing data throughout the IT system. Without a dependable data center, the continuity of daily operations would be compromised.
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In the organization's early days, it may be possible to get away with a small data center. As the business grows, their need for a larger, more powerful and more secure data center will become imperative.How Much Does It Cost to Build a Data Center?
The cost of the data center largely depends upon the size of the facilities needed. A larger data center is more costly to build than a modest one.
Other Cost Considerations
You don't just need a place to put your data center. That place has to have adequate access to network connections, electricity and so on. Don't forget that you'll also have to purchase servers and storage units. Many of these may cost several thousand dollars. Any software that is installed in your data center will need to be licensed. If you will be acquiring new software as a result of building a data center, you'll need to factor this cost into your calculations. Electricity is another primary cost consideration. Data centers require a great deal of power, and some parts of the world may charge as much as $10,000 per megawatt. You'll need a battery backup or generator too so that your data is protected in the event of a power outage. Keep in mind that fiber optic connections also may need to be installed to cover the needs of your data center. A single mile of fiber optic lines can cost nearly $250,000. Additionally, you'll have to figure in the cooling needs of the data center. The servers generate considerable heat, and they can't function properly if they are allowed to overheat.