Category: Business Tech

Problems with Virtual Servers and How to Overcome Them

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Problems with Virtual Servers and How to Overcome Them

Virtual servers are convenient with cost-effective solutions for businesses hosting multiple websites, applications, and services. However, managing a virtual server can be challenging and complex, as many issues can often arise. Fortunately, there are a variety of strategies that can be employed to help mitigate the risks and problems associated with virtual servers.

Virtualization also makes it easy to move workloads between physical servers, giving IT managers more flexibility in deploying their applications.

More than 90% of enterprises already utilize server virtualization, and many more are investigating desktop, application, and storage virtualization.

While it has increased many organizations’ IT efficiency, virtualization has also become the primary target of some challenges. Unfortunately, this alone can lead to a domino effect of unexpected disasters.

By understanding the common issues and implementing the right solutions, businesses can ensure that their virtual servers are running optimally and securely.

Let’s discuss some of the vulnerabilities found within virtualized servers.

 

What are Virtual Servers?

Virtual servers are a subset of server farms; groups of physical servers sharing the same resources. Virtual servers use software to split a single physical server into multiple virtual servers.

Virtual servers are beneficial when you rent multiple servers from a Hosting Service Provider (HSP) but don’t want to spend the money to purchase and maintain dedicated hardware for each one. You can also use virtual servers to reduce downtime by moving a running application from one machine to another during maintenance or upgrades.

 

Major Problems with Virtual Server

A virtual server provides many benefits to organizations. However, it also has some disadvantages that you should consider before adopting this technology:

Repartitioning of a Virtualized System

A virtual machine can be repartitioned and resized only within its allocated resources. If the physical host has insufficient resources, it is impossible to increase or decrease the size of the virtual machine.

Backward Compatibility

Virtualization makes backward compatibility difficult. This is because while installing an operating system within a virtual environment, it is impossible to know whether it will work. Furthermore, installing more than one operating system on a single hardware platform is also next to impossible.

Reviving Outdated Environments as Virtual Machines

Another major problem with virtual servers is that they need to allow you to revive outdated environments as virtual machines. For example, suppose your company uses Windows 95 or 98, and they’re no longer supported by Microsoft (i.e., no updates). In that case, these operating systems won’t be operable once they stop getting updates from Microsoft’s website or other sources online.

Degraded Performance

When you run multiple applications on a single physical server, performance can be degraded because each application will have its dedicated resources. In a virtual environment, you share resources among all the running applications, so one application may take up more than its fair share of resources and slow down the others.

Complex Root Cause Analysis

If there’s an issue with your virtual server, it can be challenging to determine which application or process is causing the problem. This makes it hard to identify what needs to be fixed and how long it will take.

Security

Security is another primary concern with virtualization. When all your applications run on one machine, there’s no need for network segmentation or firewalls. But, once you start moving them into separate VMs and sharing resources across those VMs, you will need more controls to ensure each VM only has access to what it needs.

Licensing Compliance

In virtual environments, you can easily exceed your license limits. For example, suppose you have two physical servers with one processor each and want to migrate them into a single virtual environment.

In that case, your license will be exceeded by two processors. This is because you will have more than one processor in one host operating system but still only one license key for that OS (Operating System). As a result, you may need to upgrade your license or purchase another one from the vendor.

Magnified Physical Failures

Virtualization is designed to allow multiple operating systems on one physical machine, but if there’s a problem with one OS, it could bring down the entire system. This magnifies the impact of any physical failure in the server room or data center — from hard drives failing to power outages — which can result in downtime for your business or lost revenue due to downtime in the applications and services provided.

Changing Target Virtualization Environment

With the help of virtualization software like VMware Fusion & vSphere, users can migrate their physical servers into virtual ones without any difficulty. But you change your target virtualization environment. In that case, the entire process will become complicated because you must create a new virtual machine using another virtualization software or hardware platform. This may cause data loss and system downtime due to migration failure or incompatibility between old and new platforms.

 

Problems-with-Virtual-Servers-and-How-to-Solve-Them MiddleVirtual Server Management Best Practices

The good news is that you can manage your virtual server infrastructure quickly and efficiently with the right tools and processes.

Here are some virtual server management best practices to consider:

Patch Servers Regularly: Patch your servers frequently to keep them up to date with the latest security updates and fixes.

Use vSphere High Availability (HA): Use vSphere HA to protect virtual machines from failure by restarting them on alternate hosts if a host fails. vSphere HA is essential for cloud computing environments where multiple customers share resources on a single cluster.

Monitor Your Virtual Servers Regularly: Monitor the performance of your virtual machines by collecting metrics from vSOM and other tools.

Automate Routine Tasks: Automate routine tasks such as power operations, cloning, patching, and updating templates so that you can perform these operations quickly and accurately when needed without having to spend time doing them manually every time they’re required.

Use Templates to Reduce Errors During Deployments: If you have a lot of virtual servers and want to deploy similar configurations across all of them, use templates instead of manually configuring each one individually. This will save time and reduce errors when deploying new services on new machines.

 

Final Words

Virtual servers are an excellent solution for setting up a new website or redesigning an existing one. But because they remove you from the picture, some problems can’t be foreseen, and many of the issues come down to the admin doing something wrong. However, with some best practices and lessons learned, your virtual server environment can serve its purpose without being a headache.

Protected Harbor is one of the most trusted companies in the US regarding virtual servers and cloud services, as recognized by Goodfirms. With years of experience, we have become a reliable source for businesses that rely on their virtual servers as the backbone of their operations. Moreover, we also offer high-quality customer support and technical assistance, often making us stand out from the competition. Furthermore, our commitment to security and privacy has made us one of the top choices for virtual servers. All in all, Protected Harbor is the ideal partner when it comes to virtual servers and cloud services.

Contact us today if you’re looking for reliable cloud computing or large-scale protection.

5 Tech Trends Every Small Business Should Know

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5 Tech Trends Every Small Business Should Know

As a small business owner, you know that staying ahead of the competition is essential to success. This means staying ahead of the latest technology trends in today’s digital world. But with the sheer number of new technologies on the market, it can take time to know what’s worth investing in and what’s not.

Today, we will be walking you through five of the latest tech trends that every small business should be aware of. From automation to cybersecurity, these trends can help you stay competitive and ensure your business runs as efficiently as possible.

 

Introduction to Tech Trends

Even though many small business tech trends could change the way small businesses operate, 80% of American small businesses need to make the most of the digital resources they have at their disposal.

Small business owners are frequently reluctant to implement any new technology for various reasons, such as perceived financial obstacles, a lack of knowledge, or the conviction that online resources like social networking or live chat are unimportant to their sector.

These presumptions, however, are utterly false. Due to COVID-19, various new technologies have emerged, changing small businesses’ operations and customer expectations. The only way many firms were able to keep up with the pandemic’s fast-paced environment was to adopt new technology.

Given how accustomed people have become to these changes, some things may never go back to the way they were before the pandemic.

Here are some of these small company technology trends to watch out for in 2023.

 

 

Automation

Automation is one of the hottest topics in technology today, and it’s becoming increasingly important for small businesses. Automation allows businesses to automate repetitive tasks, freeing their employees to focus on more critical assignments. Automation can also reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Various automation tools are available for small businesses, from customer service bots to automated invoicing. Small businesses should evaluate the automation tools available to determine which will best suit their needs.

For example, customer service bots can help small businesses answer customer questions quickly and accurately, reducing the need for customer service staff. Automated invoicing can help small enterprises to streamline their billing processes, saving them time and money.

 

Big Data

Big data is another important trend for small businesses. Big data is the collection of large amounts of data from various sources, such as customer records, web traffic, and social media. This data can give small businesses valuable insights into their customers’ behaviors and preferences, allowing them to make better decisions and improve their operations.

Small businesses should also consider investing in a data analytics platform to help them make sense of their data. Data analytics platforms can help small businesses analyze their data and identify trends and patterns.

 

Sustainability5-Trends-Every-Small-Business-Should-Know-middle

Sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial for businesses of all sizes, and small businesses are no exception. Sustainability is a term used to describe the ability of a business to be profitable while reducing its environmental footprint. This can be achieved by using renewable energy, energy-efficient equipment, and sustainable practices.

Small businesses should evaluate their current operations to determine where they can improve. For example, small businesses can switch to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power. They can also invest in energy-efficient equipment and adopt sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials and minimizing waste.

 

Super-apps

According to Gartner, the year 2023 will mark the beginning of the mainstream creation and use of what it refers to as super-apps. These apps will make it possible to combine and unify several app services into a single, user-friendly interface. These apps can help small businesses by streamlining processes for both staff and vendors.

A growing number of third-party software integrations are also being used. Today, a business might utilize Google Drive to hold firm data, Monday.com to plan projects, Salesforce to manage clients, Outlook to deliver crucial documents, and Slack to connect teams. Unification helps to reduce and alleviate the threat posed by data silos, which is crucial.

Small businesses can also use super-apps to engage with customers and promote their products and services. They can also use super-apps to collect valuable customer data, such as their preferences and behaviors. This data can help small businesses create more effective marketing campaigns and improve their operations.

 

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important for businesses of all sizes. Cybersecurity involves protecting your business from cyber threats like malware, data breaches, and identity theft. Small businesses should protect their data and systems by investing in an antivirus program and firewall, using a secure password manager, and implementing security protocols like MFA.

Small businesses should also consider investing in an enterprise-grade cybersecurity solution. Enterprise-grade solutions are designed to protect enterprises from advanced cyber threats, such as malware and data breaches. They can also help small businesses detect and respond quickly to cyber threats, reducing the damage caused.

 

Conclusion

Staying ahead of the latest technology trends is essential for any small business. New technologies can help small businesses remain competitive, increase efficiency, reduce costs, and gain valuable customer insights. From super-apps to Artificial Intelligence (AI), small businesses should be aware of the various new technologies.

At Protected Harbor, we recognize the significance of keeping up with the latest technology and trends. Our team of experts will craft a tailored IT strategy to help you stay on top of the competition and ensure your business runs at its best. We are committed to helping small to medium-sized businesses succeed by providing them with the tools they need to stay ahead of the curve.

Contact us today to learn more about how Protected Harbor can help you leverage technology and trends to stay ahead.

Introduction to Hyperscale Edge Computing

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An Introduction to Hyperscale Edge Computing

As technology advances, so do the challenges of keeping up with the ever-changing landscape. One of the most significant advancements in this space is the emergence of hyper-scale edge computing. But what is edge computing or hyper-scale edge computing, and how exactly does it differ from cloud computing? Let’s explore the basics of hyper-scale edge computing, its benefits, and the trends that are shaping the future of this technology.

 

What is Edge Computing?

At its core, edge computing aims to process the vast amount of data produced or consumed by people and devices as close to the data sources (either on the device itself or at the network edge) as possible. This explains what is edge computing basics. Hyperscale edge computing solutions address numerous infrastructure challenges that arise from traditional computing models, such as excess latency, bandwidth limitations, and network congestion. The future of hyperscale edge computing promises even greater efficiency and scalability. Additionally, the cost benefits of hyperscale edge computing include reduced operational expenses and improved resource utilization.

The main goal of Edge Computing technology is to handle the massive amounts of data generated or consumed by people and devices as close to the data resources as feasible (either on the device itself or the network edge). With this basis, edge computing addresses several infrastructure issues, including excessive latency, bandwidth restrictions, and network congestion caused by the old computer approach.

Now, Hyperscale Edge Computing refers to deploying large-scale computing resources, such as servers and storage, at the edge of a network, closer to end users and devices. This allows for faster processing of data, reduced latency, and improved performance for applications that require real-time processing or low-latency communication. It is often used in manufacturing, transportation, media, and entertainment industries, where data needs to be processed quickly and locally.

 

Benefits of Hyperscale Edge Computing

There are many benefits of using Cloud computing vs Edge Computing but here are just a few of the major ones:

Increased Performance: It provides a more efficient computing experience due to its decentralized nature. Processing data at the data center or the point of origin eliminates the need to send data back and forth between a centralized server and the user’s device, resulting in faster response times and improved performance.

Improved Scalability: Hyperscale Edge Computing is highly scalable, allowing companies to expand their computing resources as needed. This makes it ideal for companies looking to scale their operations rapidly.

Reduced Costs: By leveraging edge computing, companies can reduce their reliance on costly data centers, resulting in significant cost savings.

Improved Security: By processing data at the point of origin, Hyperscale Edge Computing offers enhanced security compared to traditional cloud computing. Data is not stored in a centralized server, making it more difficult for malicious actors to access it.

 

Hyperscale Edge Computing vs. Cloud Computing

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Hyperscale Edge Computing and Cloud Computing are both forms of distributed computing that use a network of remote servers to store, manage, and process data.

Here are some key differences between them:

Location: Cloud Computing typically uses centralized data centers far from the end-users and devices accessing the data. Hyperscale Edge Computing involves deploying large-scale computing resources at the edge of a network, closer to the end-users and devices.

Latency: Because Hyperscale Edge Computing is closer to the end-users and devices, it can offer lower latency and faster processing times compared to Cloud Computing. This is particularly important for applications that require real-time processing or low-latency communication.

Scale: Hyperscale Edge Computing typically involves the deployment of smaller clusters of servers and storage, whereas Cloud Computing often involves using large data centers with thousands of servers.

Cost: The cost of Hyperscale Edge Computing can be higher than Cloud Computing because it requires more investment in hardware and infrastructure.

Use Case: Cloud computing is more suited for applications that require a large number of resources, data analytics, and machine learning. On the other hand, Hyperscale Edge Computing is more suited for applications that require low latency and real-time processing, such as IoT, VR/AR, and 5G.

In summary, while both Hyperscale Edge and Cloud Computing are forms of distributed computing, they both have different use cases, and the choice between the two would depend on the application’s specific requirements or workload.

 

Hyperscale Edge Computing Trends

As the popularity of Hyperscale Edge Computing grows, several trends are shaping this technology’s future.

One of the significant trends is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI can be used to improve the efficiency of edge computing and make it simpler to use. For example, AI can automate the process of managing an edge computing infrastructure, resulting in improved performance and cost savings.

Another trend is the increased focus on security. Edge computing provides improved security compared to cloud computing, but there is still a need to ensure that data is secure. Companies are investing in solutions that can help protect data and ensure its security.

Finally, companies are leveraging Hyperscale Edge Computing to reduce their reliance on traditional data center. By utilizing edge computing, companies can reduce their dependence on costly data centers while gaining access to the computational power they need.

 

Why Edge Computing?

Edge computing technology is transforming how data is processed by bringing computation closer to the data source, reducing latency, and improving response times. The edge computing architecture is designed to handle data locally rather than relying on centralized cloud servers, which is crucial for real-time applications like IoT and autonomous systems. This architecture not only enhances performance but also boosts edge computing security by minimizing data transmission across networks, reducing the risk of breaches. One of the key benefits of edge computing is its ability to process and analyze data instantly, which is vital for industries requiring rapid decision-making and minimal downtime. Additionally, by offloading tasks to the edge, businesses can reduce bandwidth costs and improve overall network efficiency. Edge computing is essential for modern businesses looking to enhance their IT infrastructure’s speed, security, and scalability.

 

Benefits of Hyperscale Edge Computing

Hyperscale edge computing combines edge computing basics with the vast infrastructure of cloud data centers to deliver powerful, scalable resources closer to end-users. Unlike traditional cloud vs. edge computing models, which often require centralized data storage and processing, hyperscale edge computing reduces latency by processing data locally at the network edge. This edge computing technology enables faster data transmission and real-time analytics, ideal for applications like IoT, 5G, and AI. By distributing workloads across both cloud and edge environments, hyperscale edge computing also optimizes bandwidth and enhances data privacy. This dual model supports a scalable, flexible infrastructure capable of handling massive data volumes while minimizing latency, making it essential for industries requiring rapid, reliable data processing at scale.

 

Conclusion

Edge computing technology is an emerging technology that offers several benefits, including increased performance, improved scalability, reduced costs, and improved security. It is becoming increasingly popular due to its ability to process data quickly and securely.

Protected Harbor offers a range of services and products designed to help organizations take full advantage of the benefits of edge computing. Our solutions are tailored to meet each customer’s unique needs and are built on the latest technologies and industry best practices.

Our team of experts has extensive experience in deploying and managing edge computing solutions for a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, transportation, education, and healthcare. We are dedicated to providing our customers with the highest service and support and are committed to helping them achieve their business goals.

If you’re looking to take advantage of the protected data center and the many benefits of edge computing, contact us today to learn more about our solutions and how we can help you. Whether you’re looking to improve performance, reduce latency, or gain a competitive edge, we have the expertise and experience to help you achieve your goals.

Let’s work together to unlock your data and business’s full potential.

The 6 Best Cloud Solutions for Nonprofits to Save Money

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The 6 Best Cloud Solutions for Nonprofits to Save Money

Aside from mission awareness and meeting your non-profit organization’s goals, staying under budget is undoubtedly one of your organization’s most challenging but necessary requirements. Without having to worry about purchasing and maintaining its servers, a nonprofit can use cloud storage to store and access all of its data, some of which may be sensitive. Regarding file sharing, cloud solutions for nonprofits ensures that even remote volunteers have the same access as those in the office.

But, as previously said, nonprofits often need help finding ways to lower and maintain their bottom line. By using a cloud-based solution rather than in-house servers, nonprofits will access more affordable solutions than those offered by larger companies.

Below, we will be discussing six of the best cloud solutions for nonprofits and how they can help you save money.

 

Top Cloud Storage Solutions for Non-Profits

Nonprofits require reliable and affordable cloud storage solutions to store their files and data, collaborate with teams and partners, and access their information from anywhere. Cloud storage providers offer a range of features and pricing options, including free cloud storage plans, paid plans, lifetime plans, and business plans. One of the most popular cloud storage solutions is Microsoft 365, which offers a suite of services that includes cloud backup, file sync, and share files. It is also easy to set up and use, and it’s virtual machine and hybrid cloud capabilities make it a versatile option.

Other key features of cloud storage solutions for nonprofits include being dedicated to single or multiple users, and service daas. Nonprofits can choose from various cloud storage providers, depending on their needs and budget. Free cloud storage plans suit small nonprofits with basic storage needs, while paid plans offer more features and storage capacity. Lifetime plans provide a one-time payment for a lifetime of storage, making it a cost-effective option for nonprofits. In conclusion, nonprofits have plenty of options for cloud storage solutions. They need to choose a provider that meets their requirements and budget while providing secure and reliable storage for their data.

Understanding what each one offers is essential before deciding which suits your organization. Here are some of the top cloud storage solutions:

 

Public Cloud: Google for Non-Profits

Public cloud storage is an excellent option for non-profits because it’s easy to set up and maintain. No servers or IT personnel are required on your end, so you can focus on your mission instead of managing all those technical details. Public cloud services also offer built-in security features such as encryption and authentication.

Google has been offering its Cloud Storage product for years, and it’s the most popular cloud storage service on the web. The service offers unlimited space for photos and videos at zero cost, plus you can use Google Drive to store your documents and spreadsheets.

Features

  • Free Space Up to 30GB
  • Superb Compatibility
  • Several Storage Capabilities

Private Cloud – Protected Harbor

Private clouds offer non-profits the most secure and reliable form of cloud storage. They are hosted on private servers in data centers that are more stable than public clouds.

Businesses can turn to Protected Harbor to get the benefits of cloud computing without putting critical information at risk. As the name suggests, a private cloud is a cloud in which only one company can protect its proprietary data. As a result, only selected individuals, as opposed to everyone, have access to the data.

Features

  • Cutting-Edge Cloud Migration Services
  • Increase Your Return on Investment.
  • Foresee and Avert Any Problems

Online Backups – IDriveThe-6-Best-Cloud-Solutions-for-Non-Profits-to-Save-Money-20-Feb-Middle-image

Online backups are a great way to protect your computer and its data. Unfortunately, they’re only easy to use in some instances. That’s where cloud storage comes in.

The only provider on our list that isn’t a cloud storage service is IDrive, an online backup platform (more on the differences between the two below). IDrive, however, incorporates a cloud storage service with all the usual fixings, including file synchronization and sharing.

Users can access up to 100TB of combined storage space. If you’re interested in trying IDrive before making a total financial commitment, they have a free, 10-gigabyte version available to try.

Features

  • Unlimited File Sharing and Syncing
  • Collaboration Tools
  • Zero-Knowledge Encryption
  • Single Sign-On Features
  • Mobile Apps for Android and iOS Devices

Hybrid Collaboration – Protected Desktop

When you choose hybrid collaboration for cloud storage, your data is stored in two separate places: on-premises and offsite. You have complete control over where your data lives and how it’s backed up.

Protected Desktop is an excellent choice for any non-profit looking for a hybrid collaboration to store their files and data. The company offers unlimited storage space at no extra charge and has an easy-to-use interface that makes it great for both beginners and advanced users.

Features

  • Desktop as a Service
  • Provides Support, Monitoring, and Backups
  • Ransomware Protection
  • Application Outage Protection

Fundraising Tools – Aplos

Nonprofit organizations have a lot to keep track of, and one of the most important things is staying on top of their donors. Tracking how much money an organization has raised or how much they’ll need in the future can take a lot of time and effort, that’s where Aplos comes in.

Aplos is a free cloud-based software suite for non-profits that provides fundraising, accounting, membership management, and more helpful tools.

Features

  • Donation Tracking
  • Bank Reconciliation
  • Budgeting/Forecasting
  • Financial Management
  • Accounts Receivable

 

Resource Planning – Envisio

As a nonprofit, you have many needs but limited resources. Choosing the right cloud storage solution is critical to your organization’s success.

Envisio is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered planning application that makes it simple to build a framework and generate aesthetically appealing reports as a part of the strategic planning process.

Features

  • Ad Hoc Reporting
  • Alerts/Notifications
  • Charting
  • Chat/Messaging
  • Collaboration Tools

Final Words

There is no doubt that cloud solutions have become a necessity in business. Many companies have found tremendous value in moving their IT infrastructure to the cloud to save money and gain efficiency. These same benefits apply to non-profit organizations, and although there are many free options for small businesses, larger non-profits can still benefit from enterprise-level cloud solutions. Non-profits are making great strides to save money and stay within their budget. Cloud services have become a tremendous tool in their arsenal.

There are numerous services available for non-profits at a variety of price points. The trick is to match your specific needs with your budget—something a professional like Protected Harbor can help you with. Talk to the experts and get the perfect advice for a cloud storage solution that best fits your non-profit. Contact our team today!

Top Cloud Technologies Trends to Watch Out for in 2023

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Top Cloud Technologies Trends to Watch Out for in 2023

As we enter 2023, many businesses are turning their gaze to the horizon to look at the future of cloud technology. The cloud has made immense strides in the past few years, and it is poised to make even more progress in the near future. A few cloud technologies will likely be the focus of attention in 2023, and it is essential to understand what these are and how they will affect businesses. This blog post will discuss the leading cloud technologies, trends, and cloud migration services to watch out for in 2023.

 

Introduction to Cloud Technologies

Cloud technology has become an integral part of modern business operations, providing businesses with previously unavailable benefits. By leveraging the advantage of the cloud, companies can access greater computing resources, store vast quantities of data, and grow their operations in ways that were never possible before. It is no surprise that cloud technology is becoming increasingly widespread and is expected to reach even further in 2023.

Cloud computing services have revolutionized the way businesses operate, offering unparalleled flexibility, scalability, and efficiency. With cloud migration services becoming increasingly prevalent, organizations can seamlessly transition their operations to the cloud, unlocking new opportunities for innovation and growth. Additionally, the rise of cloud-managed services has empowered businesses to offload the complexities of infrastructure management to skilled service providers, allowing them to focus on core business objectives. In this era of digital transformation, understanding the fundamentals of cloud technologies is essential for staying competitive and harnessing the full potential of the cloud.

 

What is Cloud Computing?

Before discussing the leading cloud technologies and trends to watch out for in 2023, it is important to understand cloud computing and why it is valuable. Cloud computing is storing and accessing data and applications over the internet, allowing businesses to access them whenever and wherever they are needed. This “on-demand” access to resources is one of the main benefits of cloud computing, as it allows businesses to be more agile and responsive to changing market conditions. There are three main types of cloud computing: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).

Thanks to cloud computing, businesses can access vast resources and store large amounts of data without investing in expensive hardware and software. This allows companies to scale up their operations quickly and efficiently while reducing costs. Cloud is also very secure, as data is stored in secure data centers and is backed up regularly.

 

Top Cloud Technologies Trends to Watch Out for in 2023

Now that we better understand cloud computing and its benefits, let’s look at the leading cloud technologies to watch out for in 2023.

 

Top-Cloud-Technologies-to-Look-Out-for-in-2023 MiddleArtificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Integration

One of the biggest trends in cloud technology for 2023 is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). By leveraging these technologies, businesses can gain valuable insights into their data, allowing them to make more informed decisions and optimize their operations. AI and ML can also automate tasks and processes, saving time and resources for more critical tasks.

Integrating AI and ML with cloud computing is expected to become even more widespread in 2023, with more businesses taking advantage of these technology’s benefits including application migration. This will also increase the number of cloud-based AI and ML services and cloud migration services, allowing companies to access these powerful technologies without investing in expensive hardware and software.

 

Hybrid Cloud Solutions Will Soar

Another trend to watch out for in 2023 is the rise of hybrid cloud solutions. A hybrid cloud is a combination of public and private cloud solutions, allowing businesses to take advantage of the scalability and cost-efficiency of public cloud solutions while also being able to access the more secure and reliable environment of private cloud solutions.

The hybrid cloud is expected to become even more popular in 2023 as businesses look to take advantage of the benefits of both public and private cloud solutions. This trend will also increase the number of hybrid cloud solutions, allowing companies to access the best of both worlds.

 

Cloud Cost Optimization

Companies are keen to employ cloud computing; thus, there is a continuing need to reduce costs for these services. Cloud service providers will put more effort into developing business-friendly and cloud native solutions that offer increased productivity and better resource availability. These enhanced client resources will aid in the optimization of cloud-based workloads and guarantee a profitable investment.

There are several strategies businesses can use for cloud cost optimization, such as using cloud cost management tools, optimizing their cloud usage, and optimizing their cloud storage. By leveraging these strategies, businesses can reduce cloud costs without sacrificing performance or security.

 

Sustainability and More Cloud Adoption

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to businesses all around the world. Most organizations know that cutting back on the energy used by infrastructure services, computer engines, and more extensive storage needs will help them transition to sustainability. Most IT behemoths will use 2023 to identify creative cloud solutions to reach carbon neutrality.

As businesses become more conscious of their environmental impact, they increasingly turn to cloud-based solutions to reduce their carbon footprints. Cloud computing is one of the most efficient and sustainable ways to store and access data and applications.

The increased adoption of cloud services is expected to drive further innovation in cloud technology, allowing businesses to access even more powerful and cost-effective solutions.

 

Cloud Security and Resilience

Cloud migration offers ample opportunities, efficiency, and convenience and exposes businesses and organizations to new cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Furthermore, the possibility of fines or, even worse, losing the trust of their clients is a serious issue because of the rising body of legislation governing how businesses can hold and use personal data.

Spending on cyber security and increasing resilience against anything from data loss to the effects of a pandemic on international trade will thus take on even greater importance in the upcoming year. The emphasis will likely be on finding creative and economical ways to maintain cyber security, nevertheless, to get the most “bang for the buck” as many organizations attempt to cut costs in the face of a predicted economic slump. In 2023, this will translate into increased use of managed “security-as-a-service” providers and AI and predictive technology to identify dangers before they cause issues.

 

Conclusion

The cloud is expected to have an impact in 2023 significantly, and there are a few cloud technologies to watch out for. Artificial intelligence and machine learning integration, hybrid cloud solutions, cloud cost optimization, sustainability, more cloud adoption, and cloud security and resilience are all expected to be significant trends in 2023.

Protected Harbor migration services assist you in putting your cloud strategy into place by using systematic, risk-mitigated cloud migration services. Your cloud-enabled business transformation initiatives will benefit from Protected Harbor’s tool-based framework. Get cloud support and cloud migration help from our experts today.

Our experts at Protected Harbor are standing by to assist you in all your cloud-related needs including disaster recovery, data storage, private and public cloud services. We provide comprehensive cloud support and migration plan, helping our clients easily create a successful cloud strategy. Our services have helped countless businesses improve operational efficiency and reduce costs by making the transition to the cloud smoother and more seamless. Get cloud support and cloud migration help from our experts today, and let us help you achieve your goals!

SaaS in 2023: Emerging Trends

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SaaS in 2023: Emerging Trends

SaaS (Software as a Service) has become a significant player in the software industry in the past decade. The idea of renting software instead of buying it has gained immense popularity among businesses of all sizes and industries. As SaaS adoption grows, new trends emerge that shape the development of SaaS in the future. In this article, we’ll explore some of the emerging trends in SaaS and how they will impact software development in 2023.

 

What is SaaS?

SaaS is a software delivery model in which users rent applications from a cloud-based provider rather than buying and installing software on their servers. The provider is responsible for maintaining and updating the software, ensuring that the users are always running the most up-to-date version.

SaaS has several benefits over traditional software. It is more cost-effective, as users don’t need to purchase and maintain their hardware or software. It is also more secure, as the provider is responsible for keeping the software up-to-date and patching any security vulnerabilities. Finally, it is more flexible, as users can access their applications anywhere with an internet connection.

For these reasons, SaaS has become increasingly popular in recent years and is expected to become even more commonplace in the near future.

 

Trends Shaping the Future of SaaS in 2023

There are several trends shaping the future of SaaS in 2023. These trends are expected to impact software development significantly and will likely be the focus of many SaaS providers in the coming years.

 

Usage and Value-based Pricing

A trend expected to become more prevalent soon is usage and value-based pricing. This is a pricing model in which the user pays for the software based on how much they use it or the value they get from it. This model gives users more flexibility and control over their spending and allows software providers to match their pricing to the value they provide more accurately.

Some software providers are already using this model, but it is expected to become much more popular in the coming years. This could significantly impact how software is developed, as developers will need to create optimized applications for usage- and value-based pricing.

 

Mobile-First Development

Another trend that is expected to shape the future of SaaS in 2023 is mobile-first development. Mobile-first development is a methodology in which developers focus on creating optimized mobile device applications. This is becoming increasingly important as more and more people use their mobile devices to access software.

Mobile-first development is essential not only for user experience but also for security. Mobile devices are more vulnerable to security attacks, so developers need to create applications that are secure and optimized for mobile devices.

 

SaaS in 2023 Emerging Trends middleSaaS and Artificial Intelligence

SaaS and artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming increasingly intertwined. AI automates various tasks, such as customer service, marketing, and sales. This allows companies to automate routine tasks and free their employees to focus on more critical tasks.

In the future, AI is expected to become even more intertwined with SaaS. AI will be used to optimize software for more efficient operation and to understand user behavior and preferences better. This will likely lead to more personalized and customized software experiences and better customer service.

 

API in SaaS Deployment

API (Application Programming Interface) is becoming increasingly crucial in SaaS deployment. APIs allow applications to communicate and exchange data with other applications and services. This will enable developers to create more powerful and integrated applications with other services.

In the future, API usage is expected to become even more pervasive in SaaS deployment. APIs will be used to combine data from multiple sources, create more robust applications, and more easily integrate with other services.

 

Data Privacy and Security

Data privacy and security are always the primary concern in the software industry, and SaaS is no exception. As more and more sensitive data is stored in the cloud, it is becoming increasingly important for companies to ensure that their information is secure.

Data privacy and security are expected to become even more important in the future. Companies must find ways to protect their data from unauthorized access and ensure that their data is secure, even if their SaaS provider suffers a data breach.

 

Conclusion

As the SaaS industry continues to grow, new trends will emerge that shape the future of SaaS and software development. In this article, we explored some of the emerging trends in SaaS and how they will impact software development in 2023. These trends include usage- and value-based pricing, mobile-first development, SaaS and artificial intelligence, API in SaaS deployment, and data privacy and security.

If you’re looking for a reliable Managed IT services provider for your business, look no further than Protected Harbor. With our years of experience and commitment to excellence, we can help you get the most out of your infrastructure and cloud deployment.

Protected Harbor is a top cloud services provider in the US with a 90+ NPS Score and 99.99% Uptime. Sign up for a free IT Audit and discover how Protected Harbor can help improve your company’s operational efficiency.

Top trends in cybersecurity that will affect businesses in 2023

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Top Cybersecurity Trends Impacting Businesses in 2023

As technology advances and the digital landscape continues to evolve, businesses must stay ahead of the curve regarding cybersecurity trends. Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important as the risk of data breaches, malicious software, and other cyber-attacks is on the rise. To protect their data and networks, businesses must understand the latest cybersecurity trends and how they will impact their operations in 2023 and beyond.

This article will discuss the top cybersecurity small business trends should be aware of and how they can best prepare themselves for the future.

 

Overview of Cybersecurity Trends

Cybersecurity trends are constantly changing, and businesses need to stay up-to-date on the latest trends to protect their data and networks. With the emergence of cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, mobility, the Internet of Things (IoT), and other technologies, the cybersecurity landscape has become increasingly complex and ever-evolving.

The most important thing businesses can do is to stay informed and educated on the latest cybersecurity trends. This will help them to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities and to be better prepared to respond to them. By staying up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity trends, businesses can also ensure that their systems and data are secure.

The cybersecurity landscape is evolving rapidly, with various trends shaping the industry. One significant trend is the growing focus on cybersecurity for small businesses. Recognizing their vulnerabilities, efforts are being made to provide tailored cybersecurity consulting solutions and educational resources to help small businesses safeguard their digital assets. Another trend is the increased emphasis on network security, driven by the rise of remote work and cloud services.

Organizations invest in robust measures like firewalls, secure VPNs, and intrusion detection systems to protect their networks from cyber threats. Speaking of threats, the evolving nature of cyber threats is a prominent trend. Ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and supply chain vulnerabilities pose significant risks. To mitigate these threats, organizations must stay vigilant and implement comprehensive security measures such as user awareness training and multi-factor authentication.

Additionally, server monitoring plays a crucial role in identifying potential security incidents, and services like server monitoring in Rockland County offer specialized expertise. By staying abreast of cybersecurity trends, organizations can stay one step ahead of cyber threats, protect their systems and data, and ensure a secure digital environment.

 

Cybersecurity Trends Impacting Businesses in 2023

In 2023, businesses should be aware of the following cybersecurity trends that will have a significant impact on their operations:

 

Top Cybersecurity Trends That Will Impact Businesses in 2023 MiddleCloud Computing Security Trends

Cloud computing is becoming increasingly popular among businesses, offering many advantages such as cost savings, scalability, and flexibility. However, as with any technology, there are also risks associated with cloud computing. As businesses move to the cloud, they need to understand the security risks and take steps to protect their data and networks.

For example, businesses should use strong authentication and authorization measures, encrypt data in transit and at rest, and use a multi-layered security approach to protect their data and networks. They should also ensure that their cloud providers have robust security measures, including data privacy and encryption protocols.

 

Artificial Intelligence Security Trends

Artificial intelligence (AI) can help automate processes, improve customer service, and increase efficiency. However, AI is not without its risks.  According to IBM, the average savings for businesses that utilize AI and automation to detect and mitigate data breaches is $3 million.

Unfortunately, hackers and criminals are also becoming more adept at using AI due to its increased availability. Among the millions of computers and networks connected to the internet, AI algorithms are employed to find systems with weak security or likely to contain important data. Additionally, it can be used to generate a large number of individualized phishing emails that are intended to deceive recipients into disclosing critical information. As a result, these emails are getting better at avoiding automatic email defense systems that block this kind of mail.

 

Mobility Security Trends

The mobile attack surface has significantly increased as mobile devices have more access to corporate networks and sensitive data.

Last year, 93% of mobile malware attacks against enterprises started in a device network. The following are the most typical forms of malicious network traffic coming from mobile devices:

  • Phishing emails intended to steal passwords (52%)
  • Malware on a device’s command and control traffic (25%).
  • Accessing URLs or webpages that are affected (23%)

Internet of Things (IoT) Security Trends

According to Gartner, there will be three times as many IoT devices as people on the planet by the end of 2023. Every 18 seconds on average, a connected person will engage with an IoT device by 2025, and each of these interactions will need to be securely protected.

The IoT sector has been steadily expanding over the past 10 years, and this trend will continue into the upcoming year, raising the security risk for businesses. New laws, including the EU Cyber Resilience Act, which will impose strict cybersecurity measures for goods traded in the region, will help mitigate some IoT risks. Still, they will only take effect in at least 2025.

Businesses should concentrate on connected device cybersecurity practices by adopting or updating essential information security policies and processes. To further secure those endpoints, manage vulnerabilities, and react to crises, businesses must also update inventories of their IoT-connected devices while monitoring and updating those devices more frequently.

 

Data Security Trends

Data security is becoming increasingly important as businesses collect and store more data than ever. Global harmonization of information and data privacy rules will be pushed in 2023. Global regulatory synchronization and alignment will enhance security, notably in data protection, innovation, and cost.

Global trade and business will be enabled rather than hampered by the harmonization of security regimes, empowering improved information and data privacy for all organizations and governments. Applying data protection practices consistently lowers risk and fosters confidence between parties in supply chains.

 

Conclusion

Developing and fostering a culture of awareness around small business cybersecurity risks is the most crucial action that can be taken at any firm. Employers and employees can no longer consider cybersecurity an issue that the IT department should handle. In reality, everyone’s work description in 2023 should include understanding the dangers and taking simple security measures!

The best way to stay informed and educated on the latest cybersecurity trends is to work with a trusted and experienced cybersecurity provider, such as Protected Harbor. It is one of the top-rated Cybersecurity providers in the U.S. Our system integrates with ISO 27001, NIST, and other frameworks to offer a straightforward, secure, and long-lasting approach to information management. To achieve successful cybersecurity and greater adoption of safe behaviors within your organization, it provides supply chain security, risk management, and compliance assurance, which can be readily adopted, modified, and added to over time.

Get a free Cybersecurity Assessment to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities and better prepare yourself for the future.

Top Data Center Management Issues

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Top Data Center Management Issues

The backbone of every successful network is the data center. Without it, emails would not be delivered, data would not be stored, and hosting multiple sites would not be possible.

Spending on data center systems is anticipated to reach 212 billion US dollars in 2022, an increase of 11.1% from the year before. ~ Statista

Data centers often support thousands of small and large individual networks and can run several other business-critical applications. Many things however can go wrong within the data center, so you should know what exactly to look out for. Here are some significant data center issues and how to fix them.

What is a Data Center?

A data center is an industrial facility where people store, process, and transmit computer data.

A data center is typically a large complex of servers and associated devices, as well as the physical building or buildings that house them. Data centers are usually integrated with other services, such as telecommunications and cloud computing.

Unlike general-purpose facilities such as warehouses and office buildings, data centers are generally dedicated to one user. The major types of data centers are:

  • Private enterprise data centers, which corporations or other private organizations own;
  • Public enterprise data centers, which government agencies own;
  • Community enterprise data centers (CEDCs), which groups of individuals own;
  • Hybrid enterprise data centers (HEDCs), which combine private and public ownership.

Top-Data-Center-Management-Issues-04-Jan-Middle-imageChallenges of Data Center Management

The data center is one of the most critical components of an organization’s infrastructure. With the growing demand for cloud services and business agility, the data center has become one of the most complex systems in any enterprise.

The increasing complexity is a result of numerous factors, such as:

1. Maintaining Availability and Uptime

The primary focus of any IT organization is to ensure that its services are available at all times. This means they need to have a disaster recovery plan in place in case there is a failure within the system.

Technology Advancement

Managing data centers has become more complex due to technological advancements. Various new technologies have been introduced into the market that require efficient management for their practical use. State-of-the-art systems require proper maintenance and management to deliver the desired results. This can be difficult if the required expertise is unavailable within an organization.

2. Energy Efficiency

The cost of powering an entire building can be very high. Therefor it makes sense for an organization to invest in new technology and equipment that reduces power consumption while still performing at an acceptable level.

3. Government Restrictions

Data centers are becoming critical for businesses, but various regulations have restricted their operations in certain countries. For example, there are some countries where it is illegal to store data within their borders. This makes it difficult for businesses to operate within those countries because they have no real options other than moving their servers elsewhere or hiring local staff who can handle their cybersecurity.

4. Managing Power Utilization

Data centers require a lot of power to run their operations smoothly and efficiently. If not managed properly, this could lead to wasted energy consumption, increasing costs significantly over time. To avoid this, organizations should invest in energy-efficient equipment like rack-mounted UPS (uninterruptible power supplies) systems.

Monitoring software should also be installed that will alert companies when something goes wrong so they can react quickly and prevent any potential damage caused by power failure or overloads in the electrical grid.

5. Recovery From Disaster

Data centers have seen an increase in disasters caused by hurricanes and earthquakes as well as man-made disasters like power outages or fires. These events can destroy or even compromise equipment and systems that will take weeks, possibly months to repair or replace. This can leads to losses in productivity and revenue if critical servers or storage devices are affected.

Tips to Overcome Challenges in Data Center Management

Taking the time to ensure the building is safe, your personnel are knowledgeable about cyber security prevention, and you satisfy compliance standards goes a long way in protecting your assets from bad actors. ~Shayne Sherman, CEO of TechLoris.

Here are some tips to help you overcome common challenges in managing your data center:

1.  Audit Your Security Posture Regularly

The first step in overcoming data center management challenges is regularly auditing your security posture. This will give you an idea of where you stand and allow you to identify your vulnerabilities before they become threats. You can do this by using a third-party assessment service or hiring a qualified person to assess your current situation and have them provide recommendations.

2.  Use a DCIM System to Manage Uptime

A DCIM (Data Center Infrastructure Management) helps you to identify issues before they become problems by providing visibility into the health of your equipment. This allows you to proactively address issues before they impact operations or cause downtime.

3.  Scheduled Equipment Upgrades

Scheduled upgrades ensure minimal downtime during planned upgrades while also ensuring that any unforeseen issues are resolved before significantly affecting operations.

4.  Implement Data Center Physical Security Measures

Using these measures will allow you to control who has access to your facility and what they can do once inside. They also help to limit unauthorized access by preventing cyber-criminals from entering through any possible open doors or windows.

5.  Use the Right Tools to Secure Your Data and Network

You must ensure that your network is secure when it comes to data security. This means using the right tools and resources to protect your network from cyber threats. For example, you can install a firewall to block attacks or malware from entering into your system.

Final Words

Data centers are far from being stationary. New challenges are emerging while old ones are still evolving due to technological innovation and changes to data center infrastructures. Spending on data center management solutions is increasing due to other difficulties in addition to managing power, data storage, and load balancing.

Protected Harbor offers the best-in-class data center management with a unique approach. You can expect expert support with 24/7 monitoring and advanced features to keep your critical IT systems running smoothly. Our data center management software enables us to deliver proactive monitoring, maintenance, and support for your mission-critical systems.

We focus on power reliability, Internet redundancy, and physical security to keep your data safe. Our staff is trained to manage your data center as if it were our own, providing reliable service and support.

Our data center management solutions are tailored to your business needs, providing a secure, compliant, reliable foundation for your infrastructure. Contact us today to resolve your data center issues and switch to an unmatched data service solution.

Why Is Scalable Infrastructure Important and What Does It Entail?

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What is Scalable Infrastructure and Why is it Important?

While business owners and leaders often focus on the immediate aspects of their business, it is also essential to work on the company’s long-term viability. One of the most critical components of this is the scalable IT infrastructure.

Scalability is more than just moving to the cloud. It involves building an inherently stable system. Future development and expansion are made more straightforward to manage and safer for your business when scalability is incorporated as an essential component of your current infrastructure.

Effective IT operations and management depend on a stable IT infrastructure which is why companies should never undervalue its significance as this can lead to your business suffering if your data is ever exposed due to your system needing to be either fixed or maintained.

You can have an amazing product developed by a dedicated group of developers. However, if your technology isn’t up to the task, you will waste money on resources and fail to realize returns on marketing and development efforts.

Continue reading to find out what a solid IT infrastructure involves and why your company needs to prioritize it.

Scalable IT Infrastructure – An Overview

A scalable IT infrastructure is based on the idea that you can reduce the cost of operations by reducing your physical footprint when it’s not needed.

In the upcoming years, public cloud services are anticipated to represent a more significant portion of cloud infrastructure spending, reaching nearly 46% by 2024. ~Statista

You might have fewer servers, storage systems, or employees working within your data center. But, when you need more capacity, it’s easy to add back in these necessities and increase your use of the cloud.

Achieving this type of flexibility requires careful planning and management of your hardware, software, and applications so that they’re able to scale up or down without disrupting service delivery. A good example would be having multiple layers of redundancy built into your storage system so that if one component fails, another can take over seamlessly without any noticeable impact on users accessing their data.

Reasons for Having a Scalable Infrastructure

There are many reasons to have a scalable infrastructure, such as:

Growth

The most important reason is growth, which can happen in two different ways:

  • Growth of your company or business
  • Growth of your users or customer base

Growth is inevitable, and you need to be ready for it. You can’t just build an application and expect it to work forever without any changes.

Cyclical Demand

The second reason is cyclical demand. It means that there are times when more people use your application than others. An example of this could be heightened traffic during the holidays. To handle this situation, you will need a scalable infrastructure that can handle increased demand without sacrificing performance.

What is Scalable Infrastructure and Why is it Important middleWhy is IT Infrastructure Important for Businesses?

It’s no longer enough to have just a good product or service. The competition amongst businesses is fierce, and it’s not enough to be just good. You need to be great, which means having an infrastructure supporting your business.

Businesses need reliable IT infrastructure to operate efficiently and effectively.

The following are some of the reasons why having this IT infrastructure is crucial for businesses:

Productivity

The first reason you should invest in your infrastructure is that it will help to increase the productivity of your employees. The more efficient your employees are, the more work they can do in less time. This means that they will be able to get more done every day, which leads to an increase in revenue for your business.

Security

Another reason why infrastructure is critical is that it helps protect your data from cyber-attacks.

By 2025, experts predict that cybercrimes, such as phishing scams, spyware, ransomware, and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks on small and large businesses, will total $10.5 trillion yearly.

If you don’t have a sound security system, hackers can easily break into your network, steal customer information, or even eradicate data. This can lead to devastating consequences for your company, so you must have a robust security system.

Compliance

Businesses must ensure that they comply with industry regulations, standards, and legal requirements such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act) and SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act). An efficient infrastructure will allow businesses to quickly meet compliance requirements without negatively impacting their operations or productivity.

Efficiency

A company’s employees will be more efficient if they have access to an adequate infrastructure. For example, if you have an employee who works from home and needs access to your company’s servers or databases, you must ensure they can access them both quickly and easily. An inadequate infrastructure would lead to slow access times and frustration on both ends of the spectrum. Having an adequate infrastructure in place will ensure that your employees can access all necessary data efficiently, leading to happier employees!

Benefits of IT Infrastructure

The major benefits of a scalable IT infrastructure are:

Greater Ease of IT Operations

IT infrastructure is the foundation upon which all other components and services are built. Without it, there would be no way to perform the tasks that support an organization’s mission. This includes introductory emails and office productivity applications to complex ERP systems and CRM solutions. Considering how much time and money is spent on IT infrastructure today, it becomes apparent that any operational efficiency improvement will significantly impact a company’s bottom line.

Reduced Overall Capital and Operating Expenses

Since no upfront costs are associated with hosting your IT infrastructure with Cloud providers, your overall operating expenses can be significantly reduced. Your IT budget will also become easier to manage because it will no longer include capital expenses such as hardware purchases or upgrades and maintenance contracts for servers, storage devices, network equipment, and more.

Flexible Pricing Model

Cloud providers offer more flexible pricing models than traditional enterprise software companies because they don’t have to build physical infrastructures like data centers or server farms. They just have to buy enough capacity from their suppliers (e.g., Amazon Web Services) to offer customers the best prices possible.

Final Words

Focusing on scalability means you will not have to worry about the server’s ability to handle your website traffic or the potential of technical debt eating away at your budget. Scalable IT infrastructures are a good choice for scaling businesses and startups, especially in the beginning phases of growth.

Protected Harbor’s solution is designed to be a scalable, reliable, and flexible IT infrastructure optimized to support various data-centric workloads like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Business Intelligence, High-Performance Computing, and other data-centric workloads. Doing so enables enterprises and service providers to transform their businesses, drive new revenues and provide better, more efficient customer service.

Protected Harbor is here to serve as your reliable partner. We help keep your business secure without slowing you down by providing top-notch IT infrastructures that work for you. With real-time monitoring and capacity planning, integrated security, and on-demand scaling, our IT infrastructure or Infrastructure as a Service (IAAS) is designed for data-intensive workloads and business-critical applications.

Get a free IT Audit today and learn why your business needs a highly scalable infrastructure without losing out on reliability and security.

Essential Elements of Data Center Facilities and Infrastructure

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Core Components of Data Center Infrastructure and Facilities

The data center is a critical part of any IT infrastructure. Data center infrastructure services include computing, networking, and storage resources necessary to support an organization’s virtualized applications and services.

Regardless of your company’s size or scope of operations, dedicating resources to a data center is essential for maintaining a secure, reliable IT infrastructure that can support your business for years.

This blog post will discuss the core data center infrastructure components and facilities and critical considerations when planning your own data center.

 

What is Data Center Infrastructure?

Data center infrastructure refers to the essential physical or hardware-based resources and components that make up a data center, including all IT infrastructure applications, devices, and technologies. It is modeled and named in a design plan that contains a detailed description of all the infrastructural parts required to build a data center.

Components of Data Center Infrastructure

We’ve determined that facilities house the environmental architecture (power, cooling, etc.) and the data center’s IT infrastructure. However, this article will refer to the server, storage, and network hardware as the “core elements.”

1. Data Center Components of Server Infrastructure

Rack, blade, and tower servers that store data and applications are called server infrastructure. Servers can also be fully virtualized environments inside actual machines, but because they are not physical infrastructure, they aren’t part of the data center components discussed in this article.

2. Data Center Components of Storage Infrastructure

Network Attached Storage (NAS), Direct Attached Storage (DAS), Solid State Drive (SSD) flash arrays, tape storage, etc., are all examples of storage infrastructure. Some well-known storage device manufacturers are HPE, Dell EMC, NetApp, and IBM.

3. Data Center Components of Network Infrastructure

Hardware like routers, switches, security devices, and firewalls make up the network infrastructure. The connection and integration of the various data center hardware systems depend on these data center assets. Some major network infrastructure brands are Cisco, Brocade, Juniper, and F5 Networks.

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Types of Data Center Facilities

Numerous types of data center facilities have grown and been categorized as a result of the development of data center infrastructure.

 

Enterprise Data Center Facilities- Facilities with a traditional organizational structure, known as enterprise data center facilities, are run and owned solely by one company. These are often on-site; an internal team is in charge of network monitoring, hardware upgrades, IT deployments, and maintenance.

Colocation Data Center– These offers shared data center space businesses can rent for their servers and other hardware needs. The advantage of colocation over internal data centers is that the colocation facility handles the building, power, HVAC, internet bandwidth, and physical security; you (the customer) are still responsible for providing and maintaining the equipment.

Managed Data Center – In a managed service data center arrangement, a business leases the building’s physical infrastructure, and a third-party managed service provider looks after the facility’s hardware and operations. 

Cloud Data Center- Data centers with a cloud-based architecture have grown in popularity recently. A cloud data center is an off-premises location that your business may access over the Internet, but you are not liable for the infrastructure’s upkeep.

 

What is Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

Data Centre Infrastructure Management (DCIM)refers to the set of tools, software, and processes used to manage the physical infrastructure of modern data centers. This includes everything from uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and fiber channel switches to storage systems and data center security.

DCIM tools provide real-time visibility into the performance and health of all these components, enabling administrators to quickly identify and resolve issues before they can impact services. With the rise of cloud services and high-speed networks, DCIM has become increasingly important to ensure data center resources’ reliability, availability, and scalability.

DCIM is a critical aspect of modern data center management, helping organizations to optimize their infrastructure and achieve better performance and efficiency. It is a platform that mixes IT and Data Center Ops and may be used to achieve the best possible performance from a data center. Data center operations managers may better manage the physical components of the data center by using DCIM’s discovery, monitoring, reporting, and visualization tools.

Third-Party Maintenance, Managed Service Providers, or DCIM software can all be used in part or in whole to maintain the infrastructure of a data center.

 

Types of Data Center Components

The main components of any data center can be divided into the following categories:

Facility- The term “facility” describes the area used to set up all IT equipment. Data centers are the most energy-intensive buildings because they provide constant access to vital information.

Core Components- These are all the hardware and programs needed to run IT operations, store data, and run applications. Additionally, it could include servers, storage devices, network infrastructure, and information security components.

Support Infrastructure- This consists of all the hardware that helps provide the maximum uptime sustainability.

Operational Staff- The labor needed to monitor operations and continuously repair IT and infrastructure equipment is known as operational staff.

 

Conclusion

Digital transformation is a journey, not a destination. It’s a fluid process, not a one-time project. You must have a partner who understands this and stays on top of the latest cloud, software, and hardware technology developments. Only then can you ensure you’re getting the best technology to meet your business goals.

Protected Harbor partners with businesses to help them future-proof their data centers and transform their IT infrastructure with the latest technologies. By partnering with us, your business will receive the highest level of support and increase its reliability and scalability.

Contact us today to learn how we can serve your data center needs.