Have you ever used Google Drive or OneDrive from Microsoft? Indirectly, you have used Cloud Computing as a data storage facility. However, the definition of Cloud Computing is not that simple, this technology also allows us to run websites, applications, or just to store files.
If Google Drive or OneDrive is for personal use, Companies or SMEs with higher requirements will usually utilize Cloud Computing.
Cloud Computing provides companies with the option to utilize Cloud services without being burdened by considerations such as procurement, maintenance, and capacity planning.
The technology of Cloud is also constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of Companies. There are at least two categories of Cloud, where each category has 3 different types. To help us understand Cloud Computing better, we will discuss this topic with you.
Cloud Computing has 3 main models, based on the level of customization. These 3 models will form levels where SaaS will be at the top and IaaS at the bottom.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is the basic infrastructure service for the Cloud that usually provides access to the network, computers (Virtual or Hardware), and storage space. IaaS is a service model with the best level of flexibility, where we can arrange all the leased infrastructure and manage it independently, examples of IaaS includes: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure.
Next is Platform as a Service (PaaS), where in this service we can utilize all the resources that we lease, without having to do independent management like IaaS. This Cloud Computing service model allows companies to focus on the projects being worked on, while management of hardware, software, or other components is handed over to the service provider, examples: Google Apps Engine, AWS Elastic Beanstalk, Salesforce Platform, etc.
Lastly, there is Software as a Service (SaaS), a product created and managed by the service provider, which is usually in the form of software offered as a service. Unlike the previous two models, SaaS is a product dedicated to the End User. One example of SaaS is paid email or editing applications, examples: Dropbox, Office 365, Canva, etc.
On the other hand, from application perspective, Cloud Computing has 3 types, namely Public, Private and Hybrid. Let’s discuss them one by one.
Public Cloud is the most common type of cloud computing, where Cloud services are accessible to the public and can be used by anyone. However, resources such as servers and storage are still owned and operated in a safe and protected virtual space by the Cloud service provider, in this case, a third party. The most commonly used example of Public Cloud is web-based email or online data storage applications.
Simply put, Private Cloud is where the Server for all the infrastructure forming the Cloud is placed on-site. This type of Cloud may not have the flexibility of a Public Cloud, but some prefer Private Cloud because resources are not shared with others, so Companies will have a greater level of privacy and control.
This type can be regarded as a combination of Public and Private Cloud. This type allows both models to be integrated into one system, which ultimately enable the company to have the desired features from both, for example, a Hybrid Cloud can achieve scalability equivalent to a Public Cloud while still protecting restricted applications like in a Private Cloud.
Cloud infrastructure components technology has been extensively used in today’s digital businesses. It is not only used to virtualize marketing media, Cloud Computing also has other functions that can make a business more flexible and adaptable to market needs.
For example, in the manufacturing industry, Cloud technology allows companies to create a more comprehensive supply chain system, which ultimately makes operations run more efficiently.
While in the logistics industry, Cloud technology can be used to create an integrated distribution system, which ultimately makes product shipments more effective and many more applications for other business activities.
To understand this technology in more depth, we will discuss further regarding Cloud infrastructure and its components in this article.
Read more: Data Center Jakarta: Why Location and Latency Matter for Your Business
Cloud Computing can be defined as the delivery of computing services, starting from Servers, Software, Databases, to networks via the internet.
Whereas Cloud Computing Infrastructure refers to each component that makes up Cloud technology, including hardware and software that exist on the Cloud itself.
Cloud Computing that exists here has different components as compared to traditional Data Centers which are usually on-premise. All the Cloud Computing infrastructure is off-premise, where internet through Virtual Host is required for accessibility.
This is made possible because all software resources on Cloud Computing are virtualized, so customers can access the services from different locations.
In simple terms, Cloud Computing service providers offer services to customers who do not have their own IT infrastructure, but have the same functions and workings as an on-premise Data Center.
So, to use Cloud services, users only need a device that is connected to the internet which will then connect to the Backend of the Data Center.
Read more: Data Center Jakarta: Why Location and Latency Matter for Your Business
So, what are the components of Cloud Computing Infrastructure? Here are some parts that make up the infrastructure of cloud technology.
Network is a transportation tool that will deliver data from where the computing takes place in the off-premise Data Center to the user device. Some equipment that falls under this category are Repeater, Bridge, Modem, Hub, etc. The key factor for network devices is bandwidth, the greater the available bandwidth, the more accessible and higher availability of the data on the Cloud becomes.
Although users do not directly access the hardware, Cloud Computing also consists of hardware that has been configured in such a way that it is connected to the user via a Virtual Host. Some components that are on the hardware include GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), Memory, Server, Power Supply, Processing Unit, etc.
The next component is the storage system that will store all the data in the Cloud. In this storage system, abstraction is also done in a virtual form, so that users can use this Cloud service as a storage media for adding or deleting data. There are at least 3 storage formats on the Cloud component, namely Block Storage, Object Storage, and also File Storage.
As we have explained before, hardware, storage systems, and other components that make up the Cloud Computing infrastructure will be virtualized so that users can access them via the internet, and for that we also need a virtualization tool. One popular technique related to this is Hypervisor, an OS (Operating System) that will function as a virtual machine.
Read more: How to Protect Your Assets: A Complete Data Center Security Guide in 2025
There are various types of web servers, each with unique features and strengths tailored to different needs. Here are some of the most popular and high-performing servers in the industry:
Apache is a versatile, open-source web server developed by the Apache Software Foundation. It is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. Apache’s modular architecture allows for extensive customization, making it a flexible choice for many different types of web applications.
Internet Information Services (IIS) is a web server developed by Microsoft, designed specifically for Windows operating systems. While not as flexible as Apache due to its proprietary nature, IIS provides robust support and customer service from Microsoft. It is known for its integration with other Microsoft products and services.
Lighttpd is an open-source web server designed for high-performance and speed. It excels in handling a large number of simultaneous connections and is well-suited for environments requiring efficient resource management. Its lightweight design and scalability make it a good choice for high-traffic websites.
Nginx is an open-source web server gaining global popularity for its high performance, stability, and efficient use of resources. Initially developed as an HTTP server, Nginx also serves as a reverse proxy, load balancer, and mail proxy server, supporting protocols like IMAP and POP3. Its architecture is optimized for managing numerous concurrent connections with minimal resource usage.
Web servers are a cornerstone of modern technology, using a client-server model to facilitate the efficient exchange of data. They enable the creation, hosting, and sharing of content globally. With various types available, businesses can choose the server that best fits their needs, benefiting from a range of features and capabilities tailored to different requirements.
If we want to store data or host an application, another alternative to the Data Center that can be considered is the sCc loud. Some consider that these two products have the same function, but it has lower quantity and flexibility compared to data centers.
Read more: Datea Center vs Cloud: Which One is Better?
If you don’t need the capacity of a data center for your requirement at this time, then you can start considering the Private Cloud. But what is Private Cloud? Here we summarize the definition of Private Cloud, advantages, and how it works.
Is a form of cloud computing where all resources, including hardware and software components, are specifically dedicated and can only be accessed by one party is also known as an internal cloud or corporate cloud.
Fundamentally, Private Cloud is a different form of cloud computing, which provides customers many advantages in terms of scalability, flexibility, and customization.
Many companies prefer to use Private Cloud over Public Cloud, not only because of the flexibility and scalability, but to ensure high data security.
This is because the entire infrastructure is dedicated to only one party, so the data stored will be much safer than in the Public Cloud, where its services are shared with other customers.
The liberty of choosing software applications also makes Private Cloud safer, as companies are able to apply new technologies accordingly.
Is a form of cloud computing that is well-suited for many businesses, including those with strict regulations that still need to maximize security, control, and customizability. Here are some of the benefits of:
Despite these advantages, Cloud also has some drawbacks, one of which is its slightly higher cost. This cost includes the purchase of hardware, software, and the cost of managing the server (sometimes requires more IT support).
From the discussion above, we can see that Private Cloud is quite similar to Cloud Computing, but Private Cloud operates within a dedicated environment whereby all the data sources can only be accessed and utilized by one customer. This is sometimes also referred to as isolated access.
Clouds are usually located in Data Centers, but they can also be located in self-service Cloud infrastructure.The management model for rented Clouds also varies, and customers at least have two options, either to manage it themselves, or to use the resources provided by the service provider.
When we talk about the data center, we will talk about many things, not only about server computers, power sources, and the internet but also about the Internet Exchange Point, which is often abbreviated as IXP.
The role of the Internet Exchange Point itself is very fundamental; with an IXP, the server computer will have an efficient data exchange path, which not only affects latency but also operational costs.
We will explain further about the benefits of an Internet exchange point in the data center, but before that, do you already know the definition of an exchange point itself?
An Internet exchange point is an infrastructure in physical form that allows Internet Service Providers (ISP) and CDN (Content Delivery Network) companies to exchange traffic locally by utilizing the networks infrastructure they have.
The goal is to get the shortest route when sending local data or traffic so that the data quickly reaches its destination.
The first Internet Exchange in Indonesia was established in 1997, and before this, when we wanted to send an e-mail or send data to co-workers who were only a building apart, this traffic or data would go through overseas networks first, and when it arrived abroad, the data would be sent back to Indonesia, which is the location of the recipient.
Internet Exchange Point cuts these long routes to get the most efficient path, with Internet Exchange Point, all participating members can connect to each other locally.
This infrastructure is indeed very complex, but usually, an IXP consists of servers, routers, and several or even one network switch as a traffic lane between its members. In order to work optimally, IXP is usually placed at several points, which allows local traffic to exchange efficiently.
From the discussion above, maybe you have gotten a little idea about the benefits of an Internet exchange point, one of which is that data can be sent more quickly. But if we examine further—actually, not only that—as explained below.
With IXP, sending local data to arrive at the destination will certainly be much faster as each member can now exchange traffic locally. This will result in a much lower latency for data transmission, so that the user experience can be enhanced.
By finding the best route, the server workload will naturally be reduced, and this will result in much more sustainable data access. The existence of locally connected networks will ultimately improve the access quality, both for local content producers and consumers.
The larger the traffic required for data transmission, the higher bandwidth will be required. And the bandwidth required is directly proportional to the cost. Indirectly, an Internet Exchange Point will help us reduce the cost required for internet connection. From the ISP company side, IXP also makes infrastructure maintenance costs much more affordable.
That is the definition of Exchange Point and its benefits, where the benefits of IXP are not only advantageous for data center managers but also for its end users, who will get benefits in the form of faster data transmission.
There are some data center service providers that claim that they offer low latency connectivity services. Some people who are not aware of this terminology certainly don’t know whether it’s just a mere claim or whether it really is.
To be able to understand more about this, as a first step, you can look up the meaning of “network latency”. In this article, we will discuss the definition and the impact of latency and how to optimize it.
Latency is the amount of time required to send data across a network or computer system from the starting point of delivery to the end point. This term does not only exist on the server but also on the internet network.
While the units used are ms (milliseconds).
The lower the latency on the network or server, the better it is because it’s a measure of time delay, you want your latency to be as low as possible. Conversely, the higher the latency of a network, the more likely it is that the speed of data transmission is not optimal.
In the world of servers or data centers, latency itself has a role to play in measuring the delay when sending data, which is sometimes also referred to as delay, lag, or ping rate.
A server can be deemed as low latency if the delivery duration is below 10 milliseconds. Medium speed is defined in the span from 10 to 1000 milliseconds. Why is a network with low latency considered better than one with medium speed?
A simple analogy that we can use to see the role of latency is actually not much different when we travel using public transportation. The faster the vehicle takes us to our destination, the more time we can save for other activities.
But the network is not limited to just that; because what is sent here is data, the delay in sending this will affect the UX (user experience) of its users.
For example, when we access video content in an application that uses a server with high latency, video data or other elements in the application will load slowly, which in turn makes users reluctant to use the application in the future.
Not only that, in the world of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), a website that has high speed access and load tends to have a better position than a website with slow performance.
Even though you are already using a server with a low latency, it is possible that at the end, applications or data transmission on your network will still be slow. Why is that?
Please note that latency is affected by many factors. There are at least 7 factors that cause latency on a network or server high, such as bad weather, interference by radio frequencies, the type of media or data sent, amount of data sent, inefficient router paths, storage delays, and network configuration errors.
In order to optimize latency, we must first find out the cause and then find a solution to the problem. To solve inefficient router paths, for example, we can use a CDN (Content Delivery Network), which will send data from the point closest to the user.
If you currently need a data center service with the best ecosystem capable of optimizing the speed of sending data to the server, you can use the EDGE DC service. Send an inquiry or contact us using the form below.
In the realm of data centers, there are primarily three types: enterprise data centers, colocation data centers, and hyperscale data centers. Leading technology companies such as Google, Meta, Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon rely on hyperscale data centers for their operations. The global and Indonesian adoption of hyperscale data centers is on the rise, driven by the increasing digitization of services. But what exactly is a hyperscale data center, and what advantages does it offer?
A hyperscale data center is designed to handle a massive increase in computing IT loads without compromising performance. It stands out for its ability to scale adaptively, ensuring that it can meet the demands of growing digital ecosystems. Compared to enterprise data centers, hyperscale facilities boast superior scalability and performance, typically covering an area of at least 10,000 square feet and housing over 5,000 servers. They also feature enhanced power consumption and connectivity infrastructure to support rapid network speeds.
Hyperscale data centers offer several compelling benefits that make them the preferred choice for large corporations:
While most data centers are reliable, hyperscale data centers excel in managing unpredictable surges in user traffic and workload. Their flexible server scaling capabilities ensure stable performance, minimizing the risk of downtime even under heavy computational loads.
Hyperscale data centers are more energy-efficient compared to traditional data centers. For instance, Google’s hyperscale facilities report a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.1, nearing the ideal efficiency level of 1.0. This efficiency is a result of their advanced infrastructure and higher power usage requirements.
Thanks to cutting-edge technology and automation, hyperscale data centers require fewer human resources for daily operations. This not only reduces the likelihood of human error but also ensures a high level of service through technological advancements.
In summary, hyperscale data centers are pivotal for companies with extensive digital ecosystems, offering scalability, energy efficiency, and operational reliability. While not every company may need such a facility, for tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Meta, hyperscale data centers are indispensable.
Utilizing a colocation data center can significantly enhance your business operations with advanced IT infrastructure. However, choosing the right solution requires understanding its benefits and limitations. Let’s explore what a colocation data center is and how it can support your business needs.
A colocation data center, often referred to as “colo,” is a shared facility where businesses can store their computer servers. It provides physical storage, allowing you to independently manage your servers while benefiting from optimal performance, robust security, reliable connectivity, and consistent maintenance.
Building and maintaining your own data center can be resource-intensive, requiring significant time and effort. Colocation data centers eliminate these challenges by offering a third-party solution designed to ensure smooth business operations. Unlike cloud services, colocation combines human expertise with advanced technology for a balanced approach.
Data is a critical asset for businesses, and colocation data centers provide 24/7 security to protect it from threats. With dedicated network streamlines, including fiber cross-connect and VPN technology, businesses can reduce security and operational costs while ensuring maximum protection.
Colocation data centers feature primary and backup components, supported by systems like cooling and power management. This redundancy minimizes downtime and risks, ensuring a reliable infrastructure that supports business growth.
Colocation facilities offer a diverse network ecosystem, integrating multiple providers and ISPs for enhanced connectivity. This interconnected environment improves data transfer speeds, reduces latency, and boosts operational efficiency.
While colocation data centers offer many benefits, they also have drawbacks. Businesses may need to commute to monitor hardware, especially if the facility is located far away. Additionally, strict security protocols require authorized access, making real-time supervision more challenging.
Colocation data centers are a powerful solution for businesses, offering a mix of advantages and limitations. At EDGE DC, we provide colocation data centers in downtown Jakarta, such as EDGE1 and EDGE2, with minimal latency and access to over 50 ISPs through EPIX. Contact our experts today to learn more about how colocation can benefit your business.
When companies are looking to implement digitalization in their business, building or leasing a data center is one of the key issues that will be considered.
Companies can store, process, and analyze all the data required for business operations via data centers.
Even though we often hear about data centers, do we know what they actually mean? What exactly is a data center? What is the function of this digital infrastructure? And how many types of data centers are there? This article will discuss these questions.
A data center is part of the IT infrastructure that is used as a large-scale data storage center for servers and supporting devices.
Most digitally-driven companies are always associated with data centers, especially for those who need a place to install enterprise-level server computers that are used to store databases and host applications or websites.
Not only that, data centers are used by financial services companies such as banks, web hosting companies, application development companies, cloud service providers, and global internet and technology companies that need facilities to store and operate their servers.
Inside a data center, there are lots of racks to place the servers, along with other devices to operate the IT workload that each company needs. When the required device is ready, these server computers will be used to store, process and transmit data.
One more thing that is no less important: data center development also puts considerable importance on security factors, both physical security such as buildings and security in its software configuration. The more critical and sensitive the data, the higher the security requirements needed for the data center.
Above, we have discussed the comprehensive meaning of “data center” with its common users. To complete the discussion above, here are some of the data center functions:
The main function of a data center is to store important data and files. When we want to build a simple website, public cloud services may be sufficient because the amount of data stored is not too large.
However, large or multinational companies, the government, and banking institutions certainly have a larger amount of data. For this scale, the data center is a suitable choice for storing files that can be accessible by its related parties.
Private cloud is a cloud service dedicated to one business entity and not open to the public. The data center can be used as a private cloud as a way to host an accessible application limited to its stakeholders. Some of these applications range from CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software to ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning).
Simply put, principal repositories are computer storage areas for maintaining data or software. This location contains files, databases, or information that is set to be easily accessed through an interconnectivity network. In the data center, principal repository parts included are as follows: servers, switches, firewalls, and routers.
To wrap this topic, let’s talk about the common type of operating data centers. In general, data centers have five types, namely:
Computerized systems, or IT, have now become an important part of ensuring company continuity and scalability. When talking about a computerized system, the Data Center is one thing that must get serious attention.
The existence of a Data Center does not only ensure that related parties can access the data needed for operational purposes. A good data center must also ensure that its facilities have good security so that they cannot be physically accessed by unauthorized parties.
When a company is dealing with the procurement of a Data Center, then there are two possible options, which are leasing (outsourcing) or building it. Between these two options? Which is the best choice?
For a company, having a data center is not only limited to increasing the company’s value in the eyes of the public. Companies that choose to build their own data center usually have an orientation to ensure the security of the data stored.
However, the construction of a data center also has many challenges. The first challenge is of course initial capital.
Not only does it require land that is safe from disasters, but there are also other needs of great value such as hardware procurement, building constructions, network and electrical installations, air conditioning systems, security, and also certified human resources to operate the data center.
The second challenge is a matter of time. Due to the level of complexity, the construction of a data center cannot be done in a short time. For Tiers 3 Data Center, for example, the development process takes up to 20 months.
In short, when companies choose to build their own, companies need to consider the costs for procurement, distribution, and maintenance. At the same time the unpredictable risk is quite high.
Then what about leasing a data center?
Taking into consideration its practicality and lower capital, leasing a data center could be an ideal option.
If we compare it to building our own, the data center leasing price is certainly much lower. Even companies can lease according to their needs. If there is a storage need increased, companies can also upgrade to the required capacity.
By leasing, the company will get assurance from the data center that has been built by a third party with certified human resources for data center management.
Meanwhile, in terms of time, data center leasing takes shorter time. The company’s IT team only needs to coordinate with the data center provider’s IT team to make some alignments. This option is most suitable for those who need a data center in the near future.
Each option has its own advantages, disadvantages, and risks. To determine which is the best choice for the company, it must be conformed to the needs and also the acceptance of the risks that may occur.
For companies whose needs for data centers are unavoidable and always increasing, for a long-term strategy the choice of building your own might be an option that needs to be considered.
However, it should be realized that this option requires large capital and quite a high risk.
As for leasing a data center, one of the drawbacks is that the company must prepare a leasing fee for a certain period of time, with a predetermined nominal. However, companies will be provided a reliable infrastructure and minimal risk.
As an option, EDGE DC is one of the Data Center providers that can be considered. To ensure service security and reliability, EDGE DC has several certifications such as TUV Rheinland, OJK, and ISO 27001. To find out more about the best options for your business, contact the EDGE DC team. We are ready to provide the best solution for your IT infrastructure.
