What Are Containerized Data Centres?

First introduced in 2007, big tech companies like Microsoft and Google regularly use containerized data centres to hold important IT equipment and infrastructure. This includes, but certainly isn’t limited to, a company’s servers, generators, network gear and power supplies. 

It is a reasonable solution to insufficient human labour and frees up space for a company’s main building or workspace. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of containerized data centres and how they are used efficiently by the tech industry and other industries. Keep on reading to find out more about this recent revolutionary breakthrough in how IT infrastructure is managed.

What Are Container Data Centres?

Container data centres are essentially shipping containers that have been configured and converted into mobile data centres that house IT equipment for tech companies. These centres are outfitted to keep all IT infrastructures, such as generators, power supplies, servers and storage devices. 

Unlike traditional data centres, these containers free up space for operations at your main building and can be customised to include multiple additional features such as shelves and racks, batteries, cooling systems and more. Container data centres look like pods in that they are compact in design and easy to transport. 

They can be made for both permanent and temporary use. These shipping container facilities may also be referred to as modular data centres.

Customization and Configuration

One of the main advantages of containerized data centres is that they can be completely configured to a company’s liking. 

Based on the needs of your business and data infrastructure, you can plan the layout of your container to include features such as fire suppression units, shelving, condensers, data centre infrastructure management controllers and more. 

This may require compartmentalizing your container and building separated compartments for different equipment and needs. Remember that this configuration and designing type usually requires professional planning and expertise in the tech industry.

Growing Popularity of Container Data Centres

Nowadays, shipping container data centres have become increasingly popular with tech giants and even government organizations that need to run their tech infrastructure efficiently and safely. 

For example, Microsoft’s Azure Modular Data Centre (AMDC) is a 40-foot container unit which has recently been unveiled to house the company’s hub systems and additional infrastructure. 

Google is another tech giant that is no stranger to the use of shipping containers used as data centres. In fact, they presented their first energy-efficient data centre back in 2009.

Military Shipping Containers

Military operations also often use shipping containers since they are durable and highly efficient. Consider the extreme military work environments (such as desert terrain and freezing temperatures) that often require using containers for many purposes. Specifically, housing IT equipment is a main concern and priority for many military operations. This is where container data centres can be of great use. Being as sturdy, reliable and climate controlled as they are, converted shipping containers make great data centres for mobile military operations, even under the harshest of conditions.

Benefits of Container Data Centres

As you might imagine, there are some clear benefits to using configured or converted shipping containers as data centres to house IT infrastructure. Firstly, containerized data centres can provide easy access with doors at either end for quick and reliable entry into the data centre. 

They are also convenient because they are mobile and can be transported to the best location for your business needs. This means that you can easily and efficiently operate remotely, and if you choose to move your business to another location, you may do so easily. 

Another benefit is that they are weather-resistant with a high-quality Corten steel body that helps protect your IT investments. Additionally, container data centres are fast and easy to deploy when needed as they can be pre-fabricated and quick to install. They are also stackable should you need to expand on them later. 

Furthermore, these containerized data centres are very affordable and cost-efficient compared to more permanent brick-and-mortar establishments. All in all, they can provide significant cost savings to your business and allow you to funnel more money into other aspects of the business.

Sigma Containers: New Containers for Sale in Ontario

Ultimately, containerized data centres are one of the best options for keeping and running critical IT equipment and data such as tech equipment, generators, network servers and more. Not only are they efficient, convenient and affordable but they can be completely customizable and temperature controlled to keep IT infrastructure running smoothly and usable 24/7. They are also portable, easy to expand and can be customized in unique ways to suit your business’s specific needs. 

Here at Sigma Container, we can help with your container conversion and customization every step of the way. For more information on container data centres and new containers for sale in Ontario and the GTA, please contact Sigma Container at 1-877-225-7762 or contact us online here. 

Our representatives are quick, reliable and ready to service you to the best of their abilities. Contact us today for more information on any of our containers or services.