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What is a data center?

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Quick answer

A data center is a building full of servers and storage that powers the internet's apps, websites, and cloud services. These facilities run around the clock with massive power and cooling to keep data flowing reliably and securely. It's a facility housing many servers and storage systems.

Key things to understand

  1. It's a facility housing many servers and storage systems.
  2. It powers websites, apps, and cloud services.
  3. It runs 24/7 with heavy power and cooling needs.
  4. Redundancy keeps services online if hardware fails.

People also ask

What is a data center?
A facility full of servers and storage that runs the websites, apps, and cloud services we use online.
Why do data centers need so much cooling?
Thousands of servers generate intense heat, which must be removed to keep equipment running safely.
Where is 'the cloud' physically located?
In data centers around the world — the cloud is really networks of these facilities.

Part of the guide: How the Internet Works →