rather than reactive is the best approach . When it comes to technology , waiting until something goes wrong is often too late . The cost of downtime , lost data , and damage to client relationships can be enormous , so our advice to any business owner is to prepare now so you ’ re not scrambling later .
THE ROLE OF DATA CENTERS IN DISASTER RECOVERY
If your business relies on in-house servers , particularly in areas like Texas where we are prone to natural disasters , you are putting yourself at risk . If a hurricane can take out your building , it can take out your server . A data center hardened against hurricanes and other natural disasters , on the other hand , is reliable in the worst of times and extremely secure .
One of the primary advantages of housing your servers in a data center is the assurance of uninterrupted power . Data centers are equipped with multiple layers of power redundancy , including backup generators and battery systems . This ensures that your servers remain operational even if the local power grid goes down .
During events like the Tax Day flood , hurricanes like Beryl and Harvey , or the ice storm of 2021 — where power outages are extensive and can last for days — businesses that rely on in-house servers are at the mercy of their local power company . It can take days or even weeks to fully restore service after a major storm .
IN CONTRAST , DATA CENTERS ARE DESIGNED TO STAY ONLINE NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS OUTSIDE THEIR WALLS .
In addition to power redundancy , data centers provide you with access to multiple internet circuits that are blended into a single , highly reliable connection . This means that if one internet provider experiences an outage , users — you and your customers included — can be seamlessly routed through another circuit . For companies that depend on constant internet access , this level of redundancy is a must . It ensures that you can continue to communicate with clients , process transactions , and maintain productivity even when external factors like a hurricane threaten your connectivity .
To keep your servers out of harm ’ s way , data centers are fortified with state-of-the-art physical security measures , such as biometric access controls , surveillance cameras , and security personnel . These facilities are designed to keep unauthorized individuals out and protect your servers from physical threats .
And the security continues beyond there . Data centers also implement advanced cybersecurity protocols to protect your data from cyber threats . With incidences of cyberattacks consistently on the rise , why wouldn ’ t you have your servers housed in a facility that prioritizes data security ?
Data centers help ensure business continuity during and after a disaster , but they are more than just a safe haven during crises . When you utilize a data center , you get peace of mind knowing your servers are being monitored and supported around the clock .
The best data centers have dedicated teams of IT professionals continuously monitoring the health and performance of servers under their care . This means that any potential issues can be flagged and addressed before they escalate into major problems . Whether it ’ s a hardware failure , a security breach , or a network outage , your data center ’ s support team should be on hand to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently .
QUINN TECHNOLOGY DATA SERVERS : A LONG-TERM SOLUTION
Disasters are inevitable . It ’ s not a question of if they will happen but when . Moving your server to a data center is a long-term solution that will ensure your business can continue to operate even in the face of unforeseen future challenges .
The architecture firm ’ s experience in the wake of Hurricane Beryl reminds us that relying on in-house servers is dangerous , especially in disaster-prone areas . Thankfully , they have learned from their mistake and have now relocated their server to our data center . Next hurricane season , or during any natural disaster that comes , they won ’ t have to worry . The firm will have continuous access to the data and applications they use to meet their deadlines and maintain their valuable client relationships .
For those who may be hesitant to invest in disaster recovery planning or to move their servers to a data center , it ’ s important to consider the cost of inaction . Investing in a disaster recovery plan and leveraging the services of a data center protects your entire business and ensures you can continue to serve your clients , meet your obligations , and keep your business running smoothly , no matter what challenges come your way .
Russell Quinn is the Founder and CEO of Quinn Technology Solutions . The company is based in the Houston Metro Area . To find out more about what they do and how they can help you , please visit Quinn-Tech . com .
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