A: A server, usually a Web server, that
is located at a dedicated facility designed with resources which include
a secured cage or rack, regulated power, dedicated internet connection,
security and support. These colocation facilities offer the customer
a secure place to physically house their hardware and equipment as
opposed to locating it in their offices or warehouse where the potential
for fire, theft or vandalism is much greater.
Most
colocation facilities offer high-security, including cameras, fire
detection and extinguishing devices, multiple connection feeds,
filtered power, backup power generators and other items to ensure
high-availability which is mandatory for all Web-based, virtual
businesses. Colocation sites are being erected at various points
around the world to provide services to the rapidly expanding Web
hosting and e-commerce marketplace. The term colocation is also
known as colo.
Q: Why
should I choose colocation?
A: Colocation hosting offers you the
opportunity to have your server kept in a premiere colocation facility
dedicated specifically to the needs of the colocation server. Such
features as Fire-proof facility, video surveilance and high bandwidth
make this an extremely enticing option.
Q: Why
Shouldn't I choose colocation?
A: The main reason not to choose colocation
would simply be the ability to administer the colocation program.
If you do not possess the resources to administer the web server,
maintain the web server and the ability to upgrade the web server,
then do not choose this option.
Q: What
are the advantages of colocation?
A: The colocation program offers many
advantages to the potential colocation seeker. With such advantages
as:
- Everything is fully customizable
- Server is stored in location that has security
- Location of storage contains fast internet
connection, security, rooms designed specifically for the servers
(temperature, fire-safe and etc.) and etc.
- High bandwidth available
- Large amount of storage space
- The servers are as fast, powerful and high-capacity
as you purchase
- Can update/upgrade at will; must purchase
equipment only
- Maximum uptime for large sites
- Increased flexibility
- Better performance because you determine
the hardware specs.
- Savings on overall hosting costs
- Decreased dependence on external customer
support services, as most administration and maintenance can be
performed through remote administration.
- Greater flexibility
- Ability to use existing hardware
- More control over web server administration
Q: What
are the disadvanges of colocation?
A: With all the above advantages, its
hard to believe that there are disadvantages, but there are. With
such disadvantages as:
- Must purchase own equipment
- Must maintain own equipment
- Must update own equipment
- Expensive
- For large high traffic sites only
- Initially, may be capital intensive
- Insufficient knowledge of hardware components,
performance, and scalability can inhibit your growth potential
- Initial cost up front
- Hardware may become outdated quickly
- Web Server Administration is your responsibility
Q: What is the difference between colocation and dedicated server?
A: Colocation means you store your own
server at a facility of a colocation provider. A colocation provider
provides an internet connection to your server and allows you physical
access to your own server when you need it.
A
Dedicated Server is a server provided by a web host for you to rent.
You have remote access to the server and you can customize the server
to your own needs. The server is owned by the web host and you don't
have physical access to the server.
