Features

Features

• Liquid cooling vs. air cooling in the data center

  The quest to maintain operating temperatures for increasing computing densities has firms transitioning from air cooling to liquid cooling. We assess both methods.  Continue Reading

• 6 DCIM software vendor tools address data center complexities

  DCIM tools can improve data center management and operation. Learn how six prominent products can help organizations control costs, manage energy and track assets.  Continue Reading

• Top 2020 data center industry trends include edge, private cloud

  IT infrastructure isn't just an on-premises data center anymore. The '2020 State of the Data Center' report shows growing interest in private cloud, edge and colocation.  Continue Reading

• COVID-19 puts IT infrastructure spending in flux

  As the pandemic continues, research firms state that organizations must realign IT budgets to support projects that maintain operations and put nonessential initiatives on hold.  Continue Reading

• A mechanical refrigeration system primer for admins

  Mechanical cooling is a necessity to keep data centers efficient year-round. The system type you use depends on the refrigerant, number of heat exchanges and airflow requirements.  Continue Reading

• Data center power terms to give your vocab a jolt

  No matter the data center setup, there are standardized power components and protocols you should know. Build your understanding -- or refresh your knowledge -- with these terms.  Continue Reading

• IoT data center tech aims to improve operational efficiency

  IoT tech can make data center operations data-driven and automated. For a successful implementation, IT managers should evaluate upgrade costs and infrastructure resiliency.  Continue Reading

• An introduction to DCIM software metrics and terms

  Infrastructure management is no easy task. The right software can help admins track how efficient their server racks and facilities are and pinpoint where to make improvements.  Continue Reading

• Vendors investigate chiplets as CPU expansion option

  As chipmakers expand the amount of processing power in CPUs, some are considering the use of chiplets. These modular silicon pieces offer a possible option for scalable designs.  Continue Reading

• Server hardware guide to architecture, products and management

  Today's server platforms offer a host of options for SMBs and enterprise IT buyers; it's important to learn the essentials before making any purchasing decisions.  Continue Reading

• Organizations tackle data center operations during COVID-19

  With an increased remote workforce, organizations must address infrastructure bandwidth, data center access and business continuity. The right software and staffing policies can help.  Continue Reading

• Dive into the history of server hardware

  Server hardware has consistently evolved since the first web server in 1990. Here's a look at the major advancements in form factor, management and virtualization.  Continue Reading

• How to purchase the best server hardware for small business

  Before buying a server, it's important to assess the SMB's needs and review these seven steps outlining the factors an organization should consider.  Continue Reading

• Data center liquid cooling market heats up

  As organizations increase server rack density, more C-level execs investigate liquid cooling technology. Industry experts see these systems as an operational and cost necessity.  Continue Reading

• What's involved in cloud repatriation cost calculation?

  The costs associated with cloud repatriation go beyond the migration itself. IT managers must account for any new hardware, backup requirements and available skilled personnel.  Continue Reading

• Dive into the quantum computing qubit with IBM's Bob Sutor

  The quantum computing industry is entering a new era. IBM's Bob Sutor discusses the technology's importance and how his latest book can help readers better understand the qubit.  Continue Reading

• Top vendor SDDC certification programs for admins

  If you decide to grow your knowledge of software-defined data center technologies, VMware, Nuage Networks and Microsoft offer courses and certifications to get you up to speed.  Continue Reading

• Build up your knowledge of leaf-spine network technology

  As organizations deal with challenges of single tree path networks, many admins are considering leaf-spine architectures. Learn the ways its topology helps latency and data flow.  Continue Reading

• Want an HPC data center? Colocation could be the answer

  Colocation can offer the space, HVAC and security an organization needs to implement high-performance computing and delve deeper into its data. But not every provider is a match.  Continue Reading

• Data center power infrastructure essentials prevent downtime

  Power infrastructure upkeep is essential to reduce damage in an unplanned outage. UPS and generator maintenance, plus disaster planning, should be a part of regular operations.  Continue Reading

• Plan for a successful ITIL implementation

  Corporate buy-in and training are essential for organizations that decide to adopt the ITIL framework. Admins should also help decide if the library is the right service option.  Continue Reading

• Learn the main Linux OS components

  Linux is one operating choice to run on your infrastructure. Get started with these terms to discover how the OS works and how it differs from Microsoft and Apple offerings.  Continue Reading

• A guide to GPU implementation and activation

  Data center GPU usage goes beyond hardware. Admins must work with vendors and developers to have the right software architecture and code to benefit from GPUs.  Continue Reading

• Co-location data center market moves closer to the edge

  Data center co-location provides companies a way to expand and diversify their infrastructure. The market is growing to increase data distribution and help advance edge use cases.  Continue Reading

• Organizations try to predict the effect of 5G infrastructure

  With more 5G and IoT devices emerging, admins must prepare their data centers to support low-latency apps and edge computing with the right network and processing hardware.  Continue Reading

• Top infrastructure and operations technology myths of 2019

  Admins are consistently evaluating technology to improve I&O; efficiency. Cost, integration and business goals are key components to this process and cutting down any hype.  Continue Reading

• IBM acquisitions may be best path back to the top

  With internal AI and cloud projects such as Watson failing to deliver much revenue, analysts think IBM needs to acquire, not build, its way back to sustainable growth.  Continue Reading

• Guidelines to tackle multi-cloud and hybrid IT management

  Managing infrastructure isn't just the on-premises data center anymore. Software selection, architecture configuration and governance are key components of any hybrid IT setup.  Continue Reading

• Gartner analyst lists application migration strategy essentials

  Application prioritization, risk assessment and cost evaluation are key migration strategy components for organizations looking to move workloads from on prem to the cloud or a colo facility.  Continue Reading

• Refresh your data center cooling lexicon

  As the data center industry moves to improve energy efficiency, refresh your knowledge on the available cooling technology and methodologies.  Continue Reading

• Comparing Linux distributions: Red Hat vs. Ubuntu

  Before selecting a Linux distribution, compare Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Ubuntu when it comes to features, ease of use, licensing and documentation.  Continue Reading

• New hardware, use cases shape server benchmarking needs

  Advancements in server hardware help admins address the latest data-intensive use cases. But this brings questions about the place of industrywide benchmarking standards.  Continue Reading

• IBM quantum computers' usefulness in sight -- using binoculars

  IBM's Bob Sutor discusses Big Blue's new quantum systems and computation center, the realities of quantum computing today and how IT pros will code for these systems in the future.  Continue Reading

• How to realize the benefits of software-defined infrastructure

  Software-based infrastructure and services can streamline management and application data. Before you add them to your data center, consider workload needs and existing hardware.  Continue Reading

• Elevate software-defined technology's role in the data center

  SDS and SDN aren't a cure-all for infrastructure management ails. Proper implementation requires research and a suitable hardware setup. Here's a look at what this tech can do.  Continue Reading

• Data center management as a service launches DCIM to the cloud

  DMaaS is an option for organizations that want to use cloud-based management. Though these offerings hold a lot of promise, there are concerns about cost and function.  Continue Reading

• Answers to top server lifecycle management questions

  Unsure when to maintain, upgrade or ditch a server? Here's a look at your hardware -- and software -- care options.  Continue Reading

• Expand your edge data center vocabulary

  Data, devices and distributed computing are all important parts of edge setups. Learn about edge computing components and how you might see them in your organization.  Continue Reading

• Linux features beyond server management

  Due to its open source nature, Linux is constantly gaining new capabilities. Here's a look at some common use cases and features.  Continue Reading

• Drill down to basics with these server hardware terms

  Even with software-based data center options, it's still important to know the physical components of a server. Check out these four terms to refresh your memory.  Continue Reading

• How do I size a UPS unit?

  Your data center UPS sizing needs are dependent on a variety of factors. Develop configurations and determine the estimated UPS capacity that will meet your current and future needs.  Continue Reading

• Red Hat CTO: Scalability, usability key RHEL 8 components

  Linux software is expanding its use cases for data center and cloud options. Red Hat CTO Chris Wright details how the company is helping improve IT management and visibility.  Continue Reading

• 5 quick quantum computing terms to learn

  Quantum computers use atomic physics to complete extensive calculations in one minute, but you might not be familiar with some quantum computing terms. This guide offers a primer.  Continue Reading

• Data center GPU market set for growth, AI workflows

  As GPU adoption increases, vendors and organizations are consistently addressing challenges in hardware installation and software development. Even so, the market is poised for growth in 2019.  Continue Reading

• A rundown of server hardware vendors and the server options

  There is no shortage of server options available on the market today. Discover the leading vendors in these in-depth overviews of the blade, rack and mainframe computers available.  Continue Reading

• Buy server hardware with these key functions in mind

  Find the right server hardware for your data center by evaluating what leading vendors offer in terms of processors, memory, storage, connectivity, hot swapping and security features.  Continue Reading

• HCI, acquisitions led 2018 data center news

  In 2018, major data center vendors expanded portfolios with acquisitions for HCI and software-defined data center tech -- bolstering admin tool sets for cloud, containers and VMs.  Continue Reading

• Security, staffing land atop IT's edge computing challenges

  Edge computing is a new way for data center admins to process data closer to the source, but it comes with challenges around security and staffing that organizations must address head-on.  Continue Reading

• Edge computing architecture helps IT support augmented reality

  Augmented reality benefits greatly from reduced latency, which makes edge computing a perfect partner in the data center.  Continue Reading

• Admins now require data center skills 'a mile wide'

  The role of a data center professional is changing in the face of cloud, the internet of things and evolving security. One hiring manager talks about the changes and why admins need broader skill sets.  Continue Reading

• Learn the major types of server hardware and their pros and cons

  Servers protect data, centralize resources and enable remote worker productivity, but buyers must understand which server types works best for their data center.  Continue Reading

• Navigate DCIM software selection, security and support

  To properly evaluate DCIM software, pinpoint where you can benefit from more operational data and work with vendors. Then, ensure your selection fits your data center needs.  Continue Reading

• How to successfully perform a data center upgrade

  When data center hardware becomes outdated, there are a few options. Here are ways that admins can ensure that a migration is efficient and downtime is minimized.  Continue Reading

• Data center admins gain the benefits of microservices

  Microservices bring perks to data center infrastructures, especially when it comes to long-term maintenance. But admins need to properly evaluate it before implementation.  Continue Reading

• 14 SIEM reports and alerts to boost security

  Setting up an SIEM reporting infrastructure requires an overall knowledge of what data capture is available. With standard reports and event categories, you can ease implementation.  Continue Reading

• Accelerated processing units advance data center performance

  As you come across more complex data center workflows, you can begin exploring options for accelerated processing, such as GPUs or TPUs.  Continue Reading

• How to keep your data center skills up to date

  It can be tough to pick the skills to develop when there are so many certifications to choose from. Data center industry trends can give you insight into what skills to pursue.  Continue Reading

• Choose the cloud computing deployment model that fits your data center needs

  Organizations looking to the cloud to update their data center should consider the future development of systems management providers when selecting a cloud computing deployment model.  Continue Reading

• SIEM software basics and use cases for IT administrators

  Security information and event management products use algorithms to stop cyberattacks in their tracks, but they also offer other workflow benefits for admins.  Continue Reading

• Why data centers need log management tools

  Log files contain rich and useful management data. With the right software tools and a few navigation tips, you can maximize and implement the information that logs provide.  Continue Reading

• Build your PowerShell command cheat sheet with these basics

  Even if you've previously used PowerShell, it's beneficial to add new commands to your reference sheet and keep your overall knowledge as current as possible.  Continue Reading

• Data center monitoring best practices simplify software choice

  Metrics are essential to keep any data center operating smoothly. With monitoring software and best practices, admins can simplify their workflows and get usable data.  Continue Reading

• What to know before selecting DCIM software

  Your DCIM needs will dictate what type of software is best for your workflow. Be sure to evaluate usability, expandability and which areas need monitoring.  Continue Reading

• Decide which application monitor software is right for you

  Organizations that want to implement application monitoring tools should consider how the tool gathers and reports information, as well as the purchase and licensing costs  Continue Reading

• Systems management software heads for the cloud

  Systems management providers are pushing their on-premises offerings to the cloud, as well as developing or acquiring pure cloud-based software in hopes of staying relevant.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN benefits emerge as public cloud adoption climbs

  Public cloud computing is driving more interest in the SD-WAN market as IT departments look to streamline management of network traffic leaving the data center.  Continue Reading

• Future data center trends hinge on the edge, cloud and staffing

  Edge computing, colocation, cloud and IT staffing issues lead the way as industry analysts make their predictions for the future of data centers into 2018 and beyond.  Continue Reading

• Top data center industry news stories of 2017

  It's essential to stay ahead of the data center industry news, as the market moves quickly. See which product launches and acquisitions made headlines in 2017.  Continue Reading

• Features freshen up the future of IBM z mainframes

  IBM's latest additions to mainframes attempt to keep a declining market afloat. Containers, security and deep learning top the highlights of IBM's recent mainframe updates.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN benefits branch networks with simplicity, automation

  Traditional branch networks haven't adapted well to new technologies. But a mature SD-WAN market can bring distributed networks up to speed with simplicity and automation.  Continue Reading

• Composable infrastructure creates new path to SDDC nirvana

  Shiny new products like composable infrastructure and on-premises cloud platforms could offer a way to achieve software-defined infrastructure -- but beware the pitfalls.  Continue Reading

• Colocation price comparison tools aim to ease IT research

  New procurement services, such as Inflect and UpStack, offer a central location to compare prices, services and features from colo companies for easier buying decisions.  Continue Reading

• Master RHEL 7.3 before you consider RHEL 8

  RHEL 7.3 offers high security, reliability and performance. Discover how to navigate GRUB 2 and system, and learn which distros work best for Docker, among other tips.  Continue Reading

• Words to go: HCI platforms

  Implementing HCI systems in the data center is a big undertaking for IT. Learn the basics of this emerging technology and its components before you make the leap.  Continue Reading

• Software-defined memory trends yield speed, high performance

  A new class of memory technologies is coming to the data center landscape. Educate yourself on the emerging tech, including tools you'll want to consider.  Continue Reading

• Explore uses for virtual data center architecture with VMC on AWS

  The popularity of a virtual data center has risen because of the VMware Cloud on AWS announcement at VMworld 2017. But which enterprises should be in line to use it?  Continue Reading

• The mainframe environment: A thing of the past or the future?

  It made its name in a long-ago era, but even in the time of virtualization and cloud computing, the mainframe hasn't disappeared yet. The IBM z14 aims to keep it that way.  Continue Reading

• In the edge data center, opportunities and challenges await

  To really make IoT and similar edge computing initiatives pay off, an IT organization needs to distribute essential data center resources far and wide.  Continue Reading

• IBM Strategic Imperatives mark a transition into software and services

  IBM's Strategic Imperatives are slowly morphing the server hardware stalwart into a software and services company. But IBM still needs hardware to complete the transformation.  Continue Reading

• HCI appliances embrace containers, more flexible pricing

  As the hyper-converged market develops, container support, more flexible pricing schemes and other enhancements come to the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• Streamline Linux system management with these five tips

  Linux systems can be complicated, so efficient management makes all the difference. Learn how tools such as systemd and open source PowerShell can make an admin's life easier.  Continue Reading

• Top data center industry news stories so far in 2017

  The data center market moves quickly, so it's important to stay abreast of the latest news. See which product launches and emerging IT strategies made headlines so far this year.  Continue Reading

• Distributed data centers boost resiliency, but IT hurdles remain

  Distributed data center architectures increase IT resiliency compared to traditional single-site models, with networking, data integrity and other factors all playing critical roles.  Continue Reading

• Assess and compare DCIM software options in the market

  DCIM software can improve the management and operation of your data center. Choose the right vendor for your company to control costs, manage energy and track activity.  Continue Reading

• Evaluate DCIM software and its impact on the data center

  Buyers must know how to evaluate DCIM software to ensure it meets their requirements for asset tracking and management, power and cooling optimization and real-time reporting.  Continue Reading

• IT infrastructure automation lessens the load for data center teams

  Network, storage and server management can be overwhelming and time-consuming tasks. Evaluate automation techniques to simplify everything from documentation to system uptime.  Continue Reading

• Four options to optimize SSD performance in the data center

  As more organizations adopt SSDs, practices for storage optimization need to evolve. Learn how tactics, such as disabling defragmentation and using the write cache, can play a role.  Continue Reading

• Modern load-balancer options reflect the virtualized environment

  Load balancing means something different in a virtualized IT department. Operational agility is now a mainstay, and it will only get more complex in the future.  Continue Reading

• Learn efficiency lessons from hyperscale cloud providers

  Enterprise data center teams can learn important lessons from hyperscale cloud providers. Rethink redundancy strategies and consider technologies like SDN to increase efficiency.  Continue Reading

• The DCIM tool and its place in the modern data center

  As their data centers become more complex, admins should look to a DCIM tool to better manage disaster prevention, capacity planning, and asset and energy management.  Continue Reading

• Sharpen your server management and monitoring strategy

  Effective server management requires monitoring, documentation and, sometimes, a move off premises. Discover top server management tips and how to apply them to your data center.  Continue Reading

• The background of DCIM tools and their role in the enterprise

  DCIM tools now play a critical role in keeping data center operations running reliably and efficiently, so buyers should pay close attention to their deployment.  Continue Reading

• Software-based networking brings new automation perks, challenges

  More data center teams have moved to software-defined networks. And while the technology brings new benefits around automation, it also brings a host of implementation challenges.  Continue Reading

• Secure a colocation agreement you can live with

  To land a colocation deal that you'll be happy with, know what a good SLA covers -- and what it doesn't -- and how to negotiate one for your business.  Continue Reading

• Data center storage architecture moves toward software-defined memory

  New IT developments converge storage and memory into a hybrid approach. Consequently, the idea of software-defined memory starts to become more of a reality.  Continue Reading

• Words to go: Data center colocation services

  Don't jump feet first into the colocation pool. First, make sure you understand the different options for colocation services and agreements, using these key terms below.  Continue Reading

• Mainframe tools for better monitoring, capacity planning and more

  There are a variety of tools and strategies to optimize mainframe performance, from capacity planning to more efficient virtual storage management and more.  Continue Reading

• When to consider converged infrastructure technologies

  Converged and hyper-converged systems simplify an IT environment and boost performance. Here's how to decide if they are right for your business's data center.  Continue Reading

• GPU-accelerated computing makes its way into the data center

  Once viewed narrowly as a gaming technology, GPUs have made their way into enterprise data centers, fueling initiatives around machine learning, artificial intelligence and more.  Continue Reading

• Chapter excerpt: Master the Linux boot procedure in RHEL 7

  GRUB 2 and systemd are two new additions to Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7. Use this chapter excerpt to overcome common challenges when using these features during the boot procedure.  Continue Reading