Every organization has unique requirements, particularly when it comes to their IT infrastructure. From the smallest start-ups to the biggest multi-nationals, everyone needs something individual and different from their server hosting.

Businesses around the world are increasingly moving their servers off-site. They are taking advantage of either data center colocation or managed server hosting services. Relocating servers offers a range of options for optimization and customization. In addition, it allows organizations to scale at a previously impossible level.

But which option is best for your business? Should you move your servers off-site, or outsource your server capability entirely? We take a look at the pros and cons of managed hosting and data center colocation below, to help make your decision a little easier.

Managed hosting

With managed hosting you get rid of your own servers entirely, and rent space on someone else’s property. With managed services, your provider ensures set up, security, monitoring, and management, essentially becoming your in-house IT team.  It leaves you free to deal with the rest of your business.

One of the big plusses of managed hosting is the potential for growth. As you are no longer using your own servers, you can scale up as much as you like whenever your business requires.

Data center colocation

Colocation data centers are rather like server hotels. You rent space for your physical servers in an installation off-site. Removing the need for dedicated real estate in your offices for servers, while allowing you to remain in full control and management of your equipment. Your colocation provider will deal with security, emergencies, and minor updates and maintenance, but you keep everything within your purview.

Colocation usually refers to a non-shared space. The centers themselves boast exceptional physical security. Meaning that your IT equipment is as secure as it is possible to be. Colocation facilities also are completely prepped for emergencies or outages, meaning that your uptime is all but guaranteed. You can also rent more space whenever necessary. This allows you to grow, as well as lets you take advantage of economies of scale.

Which is better?

Both managed hosting and colocation offer some great benefits, and the choice often depends on the specific needs of your business. While managed services are often more convenient, ultimately the level of control offered by colocation is incredibly attractive, particularly to small and medium-sized businesses.

Coloco can provide a range of affordable, fast, and reliable racking options, so get in touch to find out what colocation can do for you.