Top Data Center Infrastructure Trends in 2017

Cloud Data Storage
Jul 23, 2017 · 2 min read

In 2017, data storage companies saw a shift in data infrastructure trends compared to last year. Previously, the focus was on evolving cloud trends and social responsibility. Now, the focus is on fast advances in technology and critical data center infrastructure to enable data centers to adapt and change.

The following trends are shaping data center infrastructure in 2017.

The Race to Keep Up with Connectivity

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and distributed IT are pushing IT resources closer to industrial processes and users. While data centers remain at the core ofdelivering application services, network closets and micro data centers are increasing as internet-connected devices and remote users demand immediate access to information. To support faster deployment, better standardization, and remote management, organizations are leaning on pre-configured micro data center solutions.

Thermal Management Become Economical

Data storage companies have seen data center cooling change more in the past five years than any other feature. Driven by lower energy costs, many traditional cooling approaches have been displaced by advanced technology focusing on efficiently removing the heat. The evolution of intelligent thermal controls has produced resilient thermal management strategies designed to support PUEs below 1.2.

In certain geographical areas, water and refrigerant have emerged as energy efficient thermal management strategies. These leverage evaporative and adiabatic cooling using water to cool the surrounding air for efficient, reliable, and economical thermal management.

In locations where water is an issue, the waterless cooling systems have pumped-refrigerant economizers which use no water or outside air. It can save 1 billion gallons of water in the U.S. in a year.

Security & Data Center Management

Security has become an important issue for data centers. Cyber-attacks account for 22% of data center outages, according to the 2016 Ponemon Institute Cost of Data Center Outages study. Many data storage companies and professionals are adding security to their priority list while searching for ways to find vulnerabilities early and improve response time. Management gateways, which consolidate data from various devices to support DCIM, are developing as a potential solution to find unsecured ports early and warn of an attack.

Lead-acid Batteries Are Being Replaced

To reduce their footprint and costs, data center operators are turning to lithium-ion batteries to handle row-level and room-level requirements. While the battery technology isn’t new, alternatives are finally emerging which can match the value and storage capacity of traditional batteries while reducing footprint and enhancing sustainability.

Integration of Data Center Design and Deployment

Previously, the silos between engineering and construction phases were unproductive and cumbersome. Now, data center design and deployment vendors offer integrated, modular designs, off-site construction, and expert project management.

Data storage companies will continue to evolve and deliver better speed, flexibility, security, and efficiencies today and into the future as demand increases. At Datera, we specialize in making data and storage management work for you. Get in touch to learn how we can help.

Cloud Data Storage
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