Keeping pace with evolving technologies and increasing data demands has become more challenging in recent years. Traditional data centers can struggle to keep up with high-performance computing (HPC), emerging technologies, and more complex cybersecurity threats. Instead of making small updates to outdated systems, modernization may be necessary. Here are some of the benefits of data center modernization, along with signs that may indicate it’s time for you to update your infrastructure.
What is Data Center Modernization?
Data center modernization involves updating the data center infrastructure and processes to make it more secure, agile, and efficient in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Digital transformation is a top priority for IT leaders – 74% of Flexera 2023 Tech Spend Pulse respondents said it was a priority IT initiative, only topped by cloud/cloud migration (75%) and cybersecurity (76%).
Why is Modernization Crucial?
Modernized data centers are designed to adapt to the future advancements and trends IT leaders have on their priority lists. When data centers are up-to-date, they can help organizations stay ahead of the curve and minimize unnecessary technical debt.
Instead of being added after the fact, modernized data centers start with flexibility and scalability in mind. Data storage, processing, and artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) needs can be more easily accommodated with a modernized data center.
Benefits of Data Center Modernization
Organizations can benefit from modernizing their data centers in ways similar to how individuals can benefit from upgrading their tech. Staying focused on the future can improve security measures and subsequent compliance, provide better support for more modern workloads, and improve operations, to name a few perks.
Enhanced Security and Compliance
Newer data center setups can offer more advanced security features, including automated security measures, to provide better safeguards for data and systems. Businesses can stay one step ahead of attackers with intrusion detection, automated patching, and encryption incorporated into modernized infrastructure.
Older data centers can have disparate parts that may not all meet industry regulations, whereas more modern infrastructure is often easier to keep compliant with data privacy laws and other regulations.
Better Support for Complex and HPC Workloads
Workloads are getting bigger and more complex. High-performance computing market revenue is predicted to reach $40.39 billion by 2026, up from just under $30 billion in 2021. New hardware equipped with faster processors and increased memory capacity is becoming more prevalent, as are more efficient storage solutions. Modernized data centers are necessary to handle complex tasks such as artificial intelligence, HPC, and big data analytics.
Increased Business Agility and Innovation
While traditional data centers tend to be more static in their infrastructure, modern data centers are more scalable and flexible with the help of cloud integration and virtualized resources. Instead of waiting to spin up new physical resources, a modernized data center can scale to meet demand quickly, cutting down on friction between need and fulfillment.
Elevated Performance and Reliability
Users in all industries expect predictable, reliable performance from the services they use. Businesses need to meet and exceed expectations around performance and reliability, and this is best facilitated by modernized data centers that leverage cutting-edge technologies. When end users receive a more consistent experience, satisfaction and retention rates improve.
Improved Operational Efficiency
Many tasks in data centers can now be automated, freeing up time for IT team members to focus on more strategic projects. By automating where you can, you can reduce the time spent on certain tasks, reduce the likelihood of human error, and boost operational efficiency.
Reduced Operational Costs
One way businesses can reduce operational costs through modernization projects is through automation, but there are other cost savings organizations can see in the long term. Modern data center architectures can be more energy-efficient and resource-optimized. Plus, they tend to require less maintenance because they contain newer components. While modernization can include some upfront costs, over time, it can lead to lower operational expenses.
Easier Integration with Cloud and Hybrid Environments
Cloud environments and modernized data centers are meant to work together seamlessly. 89% of organizations use multicloud environments, with 73% employing hybrid cloud environments.
To leverage on-premises and cloud-based resources and integrate them most effectively, a modernized data center is key.
Is It Time to Modernize Your Data Center?
If your business is facing one or more of these problems, it may be time to update your data center to take advantage of the benefits modernization can bring.
- Performance hiccups: Slow processing speeds, frequent system crashes, and slower-than-normal applications can mean your infrastructure isn’t able to keep up with your current (and future) data processing needs.
- Scalability stoppages: If your business experiences a surge in demand, are you able to meet the need? Are you paying too much for underutilized resources? Limitations in scalability can indicate a need for modernized data centers.
- Security worries: Legacy systems can be more prone to cyberattacks. As cybercrime becomes more sophisticated, it’s important to adopt a modernized solution that comes with automated patching and other advanced security features.
- Maintenance costs: While maintenance will always be a regular cost for data centers, frequent maintenance of old systems can become a pricy endeavor. If you feel like you’re always fixing something, it may be time to modernize.
- Compliance challenges: Whether your organization is looking to maintain compliance with industry standards or meet requirements for cyber insurance, modern data centers tend to have more controls in place and greater capacity to meet regulatory requirements compared to legacy facilities. If you find it difficult to comply, no matter what you update, an overhaul may be necessary.
- Integration struggles: Do you feel like you can’t use cloud resources to their greatest potential because you aren’t able to integrate your data center with the cloud? Modernized data centers are built for integration, making hybrid environments easier to achieve.
Is Your Data Center Holding You Back?
Don’t let your current data center stand in the way of future innovation. Work with an infrastructure that works for you. TierPoint’s data center services are here for you when it’s time to modernize. We offer tighter security, strong uptime and availability, and an easier path to multicloud connectivity.
