The future of the data center will likely be a world that includes multicloud (or hybrid cloud) with other non-cloud technologies powering one environment. These systems will work together to serve critical business applications and data. Some businesses are close to this future, while others still need help digitally transforming to get to this hybrid IT state. In this post, we explore why the future of the data center is all about hybrid IT.
What is Hybrid IT?
Hybrid IT infrastructure has emerged as the de facto infrastructure model for modern enterprises. Hybrid IT includes on-premises legacy systems, hosted or in-house private clouds, and public cloud services. Successful hybrid IT also provides a strategy for how disparate systems will be implemented, integrated, and secured.
8 reasons why hybrid IT is the future of data centers
1. Support for multiple cloud platforms
Different types of cloud platforms cater to different workload and end-user needs. Hybrid IT supports public and private clouds. A private cloud is dedicated to one customer, while public cloud environments are shared by multiple customers. (See also: Why the cloud is important for any hybrid IT strategy. )
Public cloud services are ideal for providing basic work applications to a geographically distributed workforce. For applications with heavy compute and bandwidth needs (like big data analysis), a private cloud may provide a better environment.
Also read: What are the different cloud platforms and how do they work?
2. Integration between disparate cloud and non-cloud platforms
If you have multiple cloud platforms (with a legacy system or two), then your data center managers need to integrate those cloud services and data repositories to share data and processes. Writing custom code is one option, but the better approach is to use the integration tools. Many are available as Integration as a Service (iPaaS), a cloud-based service with tools for integrating hybrid systems.
3. Ability to use cloud providers to fill resource gaps
Do you have the right staff to implement and manage a hybrid IT environment? Recruiting employees skilled in cloud development, security, and integration has become a serious challenge due to the rising demand for cloud professionals.
Outsourcing portions of a project or using consulting expertise is typically less expensive and faster than recruiting in-house staff. Many cloud services and data center providers routinely offer consulting services for enterprise customers. Some also facility operators offer managed services to handle applications or areas outside of your staff’s expertise.
4. One security strategy to protect your entire environment
There are plenty of strong third-party security solutions for hybrid cloud environments. These solutions offer protections like:
- analytics-driven threat management
- real-time threat alerts
- web application firewall services
- network IDP for cloud environments
- AI and machine learning to learn and detect emerging threats
- dashboards for monitoring cloud services and components
- and automated enforcement of security policies
Finally, disaster recovery (DR) has become critical for safeguarding data and systems compromised by ransomware or other cyber-attack. Storing data and transactions in the cloud makes it easier to restore your IT systems quickly after an outage. This could help you avoid paying huge ransoms or taking weeks to restore operations.
5. Platform options that are scalable
Scalability means building with future capacity needs in mind. A key advantage of the cloud is its ability to scale up quickly when needed. When evaluating cloud platforms, look for the ability to meet future requirements. Examples are:
- on-demand storage for the ever-growing volumes of data
- rapid access to new end-user licenses to support an influx of new employee end users.
- the platform provider’s geographic reach into regions or markets you may want to serve down the line
6. Connectivity for all platforms and workloads
As hybrid environments grow in complexity, so does the potential for latency. Because public internet connections are shared, they may suffer spotty performance and weak security. Instead, many organizations rely on VPNs or other types of dedicated connections, all of which can be expensive and slow to implement.
Most major cloud infrastructure providers offer multiple connectivity options, from VPNs to high-bandwidth private circuits. Throughout the global pandemic, businesses realized the need for strong connectivity throughout their environment. This ensured they accommodated the remote workforce and increase demand for data and applications from customers.
7. Edge computing capabilities
Edge computing is a relatively new concept in cloud computing that locates data and content closer to applications and end users. For example, gaming or big data analysis applications, perform better when they don’t have to travel a long distance to end users. Edge computing helps by bringing compute resources closer to the applications and data that need them.
Some cloud and data center providers offer edge network services. For example, some providers offer edge computing and content delivery network (CDN) services. CDN is a form of edge computing that focuses on content such as video and other bandwidth-heavy content.
8. Access to continuous innovation
Cloud providers have different strengths and customers may choose multiple providers to satisfy different computing needs. Geographic range, security services, disaster recovery options, consulting and implementation services, storage options, and the number and type of cloud platforms are some of the considerations when evaluating providers.
You also need providers that can help you evaluate and implement new products and technologies such as:
- artificial intelligence and machine learning
- augmented reality
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
- Network as a Service (NaaS)
- Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS)
- desktop and server virtualization
- software-defined networking
- and other technologies
The most advanced cloud providers have partnerships with other technology vendors. Providers with partnerships can offer you access to a wide network of IT expertise, emerging technologies, connectivity options, integrations with other cloud solutions.
We can help you reach the data center of the future
Finding the right data center infrastructure for your business will be key to achieving your business goals. A good data center provider can also design and manage all or parts of your multicloud and hybrid environments.
Our experts and network of technology providers are critical to helping customers stay innovative and competitive. We can help you assess your digital infrastructure and find the right solution to drive your future growth.
