3. Ensure the power system is not under attack or threat.
Data centers are connected via networks. Of course, in addition to the terminals and access points contained in the racks, many channels can become pathways to damage the data center. Therefore, protecting these channels from damage is an issue that needs to be considered when building a data center.
Here, cyberattacks become a possibility. Many hackers may not directly damage the power supply system, but instead enter the data center through the network to disrupt the data center’s power supply.
Furthermore, we should not only guard against hackers who sabotage data centers through network means, but also against sabotage by internal personnel. Some staff members, due to their lack of experience, may cause a power outage to the data center due to a small mistake.
Therefore, establishing operational documentation and process control is crucial to prevent destructive actions using the methods described above. In this context, using more hardware is not the best option for preventing catastrophic power outages; software-based management is a more reliable approach.
4. Consider conducting more fault-tolerant tests and developing a comprehensive disaster recovery plan.
Data centers inevitably experience some malfunctions during operation. As the saying goes, “better safe than sorry,” having previous experience with or simulations of potential failures provides greater expertise in handling actual bugs. Therefore, we recommend conducting power outage tests on the data center using virtual switching devices, without impacting the business environment. This allows data center operators to handle worst-case scenarios and recover from them.
Data center operators often assume their power supply chain and backup systems are foolproof, but what do they envision the consequences of without fail-safe testing? Power failure simulations allow data center operators to identify areas lacking redundancy and pinpoint single points of failure. However, this requires documentation. Therefore, data center operators establish outage testing mechanisms and document their recovery processes in the event of a catastrophic power failure.
5. Data center construction should include real-time monitoring of operations.
Real-time monitoring of data centers is a precautionary measure, so data center operators must know where all equipment is located and how much power it is using. While this is challenging for data centers with ever-expanding infrastructure and can have a significant impact on battery capacity and power distribution, the only way to monitor all moving parts is with a single, holistic view. This view, with its real-time monitoring and alerting capabilities, enables data center operators to mitigate risk and make changes to prevent disaster.
In conclusion, the economic losses caused by a power outage in a data center are incalculable. It is better to start with the methods mentioned above and protect every aspect of the data center to better maintain and operate it.