Computing Hardware - Computing units, data storage devices and other

hardware deployed by customers or provided as a service by the data center.

Racks - Data center hardware is typically mounted into racks that maximize

the use of space in the facility. Racks may stretch towards the ceiling leaving

just enough room for overhead cable systems, cooling and airflow.

Technology Infrastructure - Network and security devices that

provide foundational services such as internet connectivity.

Connectivity - Data centers often have multiple fiber connections to the

internet provided by multiple carriers.

Facility - Data center buildings may be specifically designed as a data center.

For example, the height of ceilings will match requirements for racks and

overhead systems. In some cases, a data center occupies a floor of an

existing building.

Site - A data center requires a site with connections to grids, networks and

physical infrastructure such as roads. Proximity to markets, customers,

employees and services also play a role in selecting an appropriate site.

Locating data centers in cold climates can reduce cooling costs.

Power - Each machine in a data center may be dual-power provided with the

data center having multiple grid connections. As such, the electrical

infrastructure in a data center can be quite complex with features for

distribution, switching and bypass of power.

Cabling System - A system for managing the great length of cables that

connect each machine in a data center to power, networks, devices and

resources. It is common for data centers to have a raised floor for easy

access to cables. Alternatively, some cabling systems hang from the ceiling.

UPS - Uninterruptible power source systems that provide protection from

short power outages and unstable power supply such as surges.

Energy Production Systems - A system of backup power such as a

generator with fuel storage. It is also common for data centers to have a solar

panel system on the roof or nearby.

Environment Control - Systems for cooling hardware and providing heating,

ventilation, air conditioning, humidification and dehumidification for the facility.

Cooling is a significant element of data center efficiency. Data centers may be

specifically designed and operated to minimize the power required to cool

equipment.

Fire Protection - Active systems for fire protection such as smoke

detectors and a fire sprinkler system. Passive systems such as fire-resistant

barriers may also be used.

Meet-me Room - An area for telecommunications companies to physically

connect their networks and exchange traffic.

Physical Security - Data centers are designed for security with few windows

and features such as mantraps for access control. They are typically

monitored with cameras and may have on-site security guards.

Network Operations Center (NOC) - A room for operations staff with tools

for monitoring, administering, maintaining and securing computing resources.

A NOC may act as first line support that provide service desk, incident

management and problem management services.