A Data Center is a secure facility used to house and protect computer systems and related components, such as telecommunications and data storage gear.

A data center is a centralized repository designed specifically for the storage, management and dissemination of data and information. It may be a dedicated space within a larger building, a standalone facility or a group of buildings. It may also be synonymous with the term “network operations center” (NOC), a restricted area with automated systems that monitor server activity, web traffic and network performance.

A data center generally includes redundant or backup power supplies, redundant data communications connections, environmental controls such as air conditioning and fire suppression, and security devices. Industry requirements for data center infrastructure range from Tier 1, which is essentially a server room that must follow basic guidelines for system installation; to Tier 4, which is specially designed to support mission-critical computing with fully redundant subsystems and compartmentalized security zones with biometric controls.