Nowadays, we cannot imagine our lives without the Internet. The web has firmly become part of our casual lives. Data centers (DCs) are critical nodes in the global Internet infrastructure. They provide data storage, processing, and transmission space, which is essential when browsing an online space. Thus, the Internet and DCs are bound to create a comfortable space for web surfers.
Datacenter connection to the Internet is a complex process that demands high reliability and speed. Each system needs to ensure smooth communication between chains of one network. So, we will discuss how data centers connect to the Internet and highlight the critical features of stable system arrangement.
What is an Internet Service Provider (ISP)?
Systems connect to the Web through specialized providers. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer Web access services to organizations and individuals. Such providers are critical in ensuring connectivity, acting as intermediaries between users and the global network. So, they are indispensable chain links.
When cooperating with data centers, ISPs provide web access and specialized services with high bandwidth and low latency. Thus, DCs enjoy maximum performance and meet the needed steady functioning requirements.
Do Data Centers Use Internet Service Providers?
As mentioned above, ISPs are indispensable components of a network chain to ensure DCs’ access to the Internet. They provide data centers with access to the Web and create a favorable environment for optimal performance. Data centers typically work with ISPs through partnership agreements with several major providers. For example, Google provides ISP services but has 499 peering agreements with companies responsible for distributing information.
Many DCs connect to the Web via Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), enabling efficient traffic exchange. These are network infrastructures that make inter-operator exchange of IP traffic possible. They reduce traffic costs, increase resource availability, ensure high connection speed, provide a ready-made infrastructure, and guarantee an easy network. To connect to IXPs, it’s enough to place the equipment on the traffic exchange point and then set a connection to the required provider by laying a connecting line.
Some companies build their backbone networks to reduce reliance on external providers. They set up their infrastructures to ensure that their DCs meet the requirements for a stable connection to the Web. Large enterprises with big data centers often stick to such solutions.
How Do Data Centers Connect to the Internet?
The connection to the web is a complex process that involves several components. To ensure a stable and uninterruptible data center network to the internet, it’s necessary to create the combination of the following constituents:
- High-speed fiber optic cables. They are responsible for uniting all components and ensuring smooth communication.
- Connections to IXPs (public, private, or hybrid). Once you’re done organizing devices with cables, it’s time to find an Internet provider and set a suitable type of connection. IXPs offer various kinds of connections: public, private, or hybrid. A public option implies several users accessing the Web via one connection route. A private solution provides a user with personal access to the Web, meaning that no third parties interfere with your pathway. You should choose a suitable option, depending on system requirements.
- Private backbone networks. They are designed for high throughput and comprehensive coverage and are organized based on a fiber-optic network using high-speed network equipment.
In this regard, server racks are an effective solution for housing networking equipment, such as routers, switches, and other devices. These racks ensure reliable and convenient connectivity while providing efficient cooling for the equipment. Besides, racks offer advanced opportunities for cable management, which plays a crucial role in maintaining clean and efficient connections within server racks. Keeping cables neat and bound is essential to prevent tangling and pollution and avoid hindering air circulation.
Security and Reliability in Data Center Connections
The security and reliability of Internet connection is paramount for IT systems. It’s vital to prevent data theft or leakage and protect information. Data centers ensure a secure Internet network by using the following solutions:
- Firewalls. They are computer network security systems that restrict the passage of incoming, outgoing, and intra-network traffic. Simply put, they protect systems against unauthorized access.
- Encryption. It is an advanced algorithm for information transformation that makes data unreadable to outsiders. This approach allows for secure data transmission.
- DDoS protection. A DoS is a hacker attack on a computer system that aims to cause it to fail. Advanced systems prevent disruptions from cyberattacks.
- Redundant fiber links. These are extra routes that ensure continuous connectivity.
- Backup power supplies. Extra power units prevent system downtime and maintain operations during outages.
Redundant systems, such as multiple fiber links and power supplies, are essential to guarantee uptime in an emergency.
Here’s how to ensure a secure and reliable data center Internet connection. Find trusted service providers and test the system for compliance with modern requirements. The combination of discussed factors helps develop a high-quality, well-performed system with stable access to the Web.