Colocation benefits your business in many ways. It is cost-effective, reliable, and scalable. It helps you retain control over your server while the service-providing company takes care of its security and infrastructural support. However, businesses often hesitate to opt for colocation instead of all these advantages because of the complex and cumbersome process of migrating the IT infrastructure from an on-premises data center to a colocation facility.
Although transformation from on-premises to colocation is much easier than migrating to the cloud, still the process can be lengthy. If you do not plan it properly, chances are you will end up spending much more than required. But once you successfully move your IT setup to a colocation, you will realize this is worth the effort. Following are the three important factors that you should keep in mind while migrating your server.
Migrating Hardware
The migration process involves extensive movement of hardware set up. It may also include moving fragile equipment. First, take the inventory of your existing setup. Evaluate what you need to move to the colocation center. At this stage, you may also contact the colocation facility to discuss the provisions. After you finalize the list of the things to move, arrange the transportation logistics. It is better to hire a team that has experience moving such equipment. Their experts can dismantle the setup, pack it properly, and take the required care. Hardware equipment is sensitive to magnetic fields, temperature, and other conditions, and all moving companies may not have the required knowledge and expertise. Thus, it is crucial to choose the moving company carefully.
Migrating Data and Apps
The process of moving all your data and app can be complex. Especially if you are purchasing new servers, plan ahead with the help of IT experts. You may also seek guidance from the colocation service provider.
Some apps may need refactoring before it is migrated to a new server. The process is complex and requires expert knowledge. The apps need to be tested beforehand to ensure that they function correctly after the refactoring process. Furthermore, make sure you have stable network support that can transfer a large amount of data. You may also need to consider other methods besides transferring data over the network. Plan it beforehand to avoid last-minute confusion.
Make a Checklist
It may sound trivial. However, it is critical for a smooth transformation. Without a thorough checklist, you and your team will lose track of the tasks that need to be done. A missed step may cost you hundreds of dollars. Involve all concerned parties while making the checklist. Review the checklist at least twice before finalizing it. Along with the list of tasks, the checklist should also include the name of the persons responsible for completing it. A team should also monitor the overall process and guide individuals on each step.
Coloco provides colocation services in Washington DC and the Baltimore area. We will provide all the necessary support that you need to move your IT infrastructure to our colocation center. Get in touch with us to know more about our plans and packages. We are here to answer all your questions.
