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Why Co-locate your web server?
Server co-location is an option that some web hosting companies offer to
companies that are confident that they can administrate their own
server, which they lease, rent or purchase. The advantage is that the
server is kept in the data centre that the web host provides, and that it
is connected into that company's high-speed network. This solution saves
the cost of direct hardware maintenance, physical security and
high-speed network connections.
Introduction to server co-location contracts
The specific details of server co-location contracts can be tailored
to the specific needs of the client. Some web hosts offer a wide range
of services and can provide technical support to clients in
the case where a company wants to handle the bulk of the day-to-day
server administration, but occasionally needs the help of the
technicians. Others plug your server into their network and let you take
care of all the administration.
What you need to know
1. Where will your server be located?
Although your technicians will be administering your servers from either your
own office or from the control center of your choice, your servers will
be located at your web host's data centre. Make sure that it is an insured,
secure, clean environment, monitored around the clock by people who
understand telecommunications and computer hardware. You want to know
that in the event of a problem there will be skilled people on hand to
take care of your server.
2. How will your server be connected into the Internet?
There are two main connections for your server; one from your office to your server and one from your server to the Internet. The
first defines the speed of access your systems administrators have to
your server. The second defines the maximum bandwidth that will be
available and therefore the access that your visitors will have to your
web site. Find out what telecommunications companies your web host works
with. Look for a redundant system, one that can re-route through
different connections to maximize reliability.
3. How will your server be protected from damage or theft?
Insurance is important but in the long run it is best to be up and
running all the time. Your host's facility should have a number of
security systems available to protect your server and your data. Look
for an uninterruptible power supply to protect your server from power
failure. Look for a physically secure facility to protect from theft.
Look for a safe structure with high-grade fire protections systems. Look
for a tape data-backup program, so that your site can be, in a
worst-case scenario, up-and-running as soon as possible. Find out what
other companies share the facility, this will tell you a lot about
quality of the web host's facility.
4. Do you need extra technical support?
Consultation and technical support are other possible reasons to
co-locate your server. Not only will a good web host have a robust
facility, staffed by knowledgeable staff, but they will also have a team
of system administrators and technicians that can help you.
Your decision as to whether you want to co-locate your server or try
another option, such as purchasing a dedicated server package, comes
down to resources. If your in-house technicians are fully capable and
costs are not prohibitive, then co-location could be the way to go. The
best thing to do is to ask around. The staff at well established
companies can be very helpful for companies seeking to expand their
Internet presence.
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