Colocation - What to consider?

What criteria should customers consider when choosing a suitable colocation provider to ensure their own server is optimally connected to the internet in a technical environment? This is the question we will explore in the following article.

Colocation or server housing refers to the practice of placing one's own server in a data centre of a web hosting provider. Customers bring their own hardware, which the provider then integrates into the data centre's network to connect the server to the internet. This option is often used when systems need to meet specific requirements for software applications that are not offered by web hosting providers on dedicated servers. On their own server, customers can configure the entire system according to their preferences. Instead of having to build an expensive infrastructure themselves, their own server can be connected to the internet via colocation through the web host's data centre. The provider takes care of the maintenance and upkeep of the infrastructure, while the customer is only responsible for their own server. Therefore, most companies offering services on the internet rely on colocation and server housing.

But what criteria should one consider when choosing the right provider? Here are the top five key points we have summarised for you:

1. Data Centre Infrastructure

One of the most important selection criteria is the technical infrastructure of the chosen data centre. It should be carrier-neutral, allowing connections to various Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and not tied to a specific company. Additionally, it should have an extensive backbone network to ensure a stable, fast, and reliable connection to the internet at all times. Direct connection to one of the so-called internet nodes, an Internet Exchange Point (IXP), is also advantageous.

In addition, redundant systems in climate control and power supply should be in place. In the event of a complete power outage to the building, emergency power supply through diesel generators or batteries should be possible. Building security is also crucial under this point. Are there sufficient fire extinguishing systems in case of a fire, are strict access controls in place, and is the data centre under 24/7 video surveillance? On-site security personnel also ensure higher security.

2. Technical Support

While the Colocation Provider is primarily responsible for internet connectivity, this should be available 24/7. Additionally, a 24/7 monitoring system is useful to promptly inform customers of any issues. Additional services such as maintenance, hardware replacement, or server configurations usually incur extra costs, but these services should be offered in case of emergencies. A quick response time from support is crucial in colocation services. They should be reachable via email and preferably by phone around the clock.

3. Costs

Costs also play a significant role in server housing. Typically, various costs are involved. There are fees for the space and power supply, as well as charges for internet connectivity and data usage. It is important that all charges are clearly itemised, with no hidden costs appearing on the monthly bill. When choosing a colocation service, it's advisable not to opt for the cheapest provider but to focus on quality. Of course, one should also avoid overpaying unnecessarily by comparing prices and offers from different providers in advance.

4. Experience and Reputation

As with choosing a regular web hosting provider, it is important to research the selected company beforehand. This can involve using customer reviews found in specialised internet forums or discussion groups, providing neutral first-hand information on downtime, response times, as well as the competence and friendliness of the support team. Official documents, such as the company's annual reports, also offer valuable insights into the business. Understanding the financial health of the company, potential bankruptcy risks, or any other issues is crucial. Particularly in long-term collaborations, such as in colocation, it is important to think ahead. Optional server monitoring can help in monitoring server availability.

5. Certificates

Official certificates can be a significant aid in choosing the right colocation provider. There are now many different certifications issued by reputable organisations for companies. Here are the key ones to consider:

ISO 22301 - Business Continuity Management

The standard issued by the International Organization for Standardization on business continuity management obliges companies to develop strategies, plans, and actions to protect activities or processes that, if interrupted, would cause serious damage or devastating losses to the organisation.

ISO 27001 - Information Security Management Systems

The international standard for information security management systems specifies the requirements for establishing, implementing, operating, monitoring, maintaining, and improving a documented information security management system considering IT risks throughout the entire organisation.

TÜViT - TSI Certification Mark

The Trusted Site Infrastructure (TSI) is a certification mark from TÜV Informationstechnik GmbH for a reliable IT infrastructure. The assessment, auditing, and certification of an IT infrastructure are conducted by an official body according to the TSI catalogue, and the certificate is then awarded in one of the various availability classes from Level 1 to Level 4:

• Level 1: Medium protection requirements (corresponds to the requirements of the BSI IT Baseline Protection Catalogue)
• Level 2: Extended protection requirements (additional supplementary requirements met)
• Level 3: High protection requirements (additional complete redundancy of critical supply systems)
• Level 4: Very high protection requirements (additional reinforced access control, no adjacent threat potentials, minimal response times)

TÜV Certification

Special testing procedures are also carried out by TÜV Rheinland or TÜV SÜD to certify data centres.

Environmental Certification

Some data centres rely on electricity from renewable sources and are therefore particularly suitable for customers who value an environmentally friendly image.

Moving to colocation is often a significant and important decision for your own company. Therefore, it is advisable to take enough time and consider all important criteria in order to subsequently select the appropriate provider for Server Housing.