What is Co-location?

The term Co-location refers to the provision of space for client telecommunications equipment in a service provider's premises. For example, a Web site owner might co-locate the site's servers on the premises of an Internet service provider (ISP) that provides co-location services.

Who needs Co-location hosting?

Generally, co-location suits customers who want to have full control over all aspects of their website and the way it operates. Customers who want to supply their own hardware, which may be specialised, or want the ability at any time to remove their server, or move it to another location are suited for internal hosting, meaning they host the websites themselves and pay for the internet connectivity and networking needs. Those customers who meet the above requirements, but aren’t able to host their website themselves are suited for co-location hosting.

Who actually supplies the server?

Generally, when using co-location providers the server usually belongs to the customer. Normally, this involves a server being completely configured and loaded with information, then being delivered to the co-location provider ready to go.

Will Ipera make sure my machine stays online?

Generally the health of your equipment is your responsibility, however Ipera can provide support and "remote hands" during ordinary business hours. Outside of business hours we have on-call engineers who can provide limited support services under your instruction.

If something goes wrong with my server hardware, who fixes it

Ipera can assist in diagnosing some faults, however generally you will need to send your own technician to our facilities to resolve hardware faults. If you are concerned about hardware failure, Ipera offer Virtual Private Servers, which are far more reliable because your server is abstracted from the hardware that it runs on. Some of Ipera's VPS products come with Service Level Agreements (SLAs) guaranteeing up to 99.99% availability. You can read more about Ipera's VPS products here.

Is there a limit to the size of my server?

There are pricing differences in relation to the size of your server. Ipera charge based on the standard Rack Unit ("RU") measure. Most servers are usually designated either 1,2 or 3 Rack Units depending on the manufacturer and the hardware. Note that it is not practical in terms of cost to host tower-style servers because they do not use space as effectively as rack-mountable equipment.

Can I have access to my own equipment 24x7?

Customers with a full rack are issued with a swipe card and PIN number to the Data Centre, giving you twenty-four hour access, seven days a week.

How do I access my equipment if I only require sub-rack space?

If you purchase only partial rack space, you need to notify Ipera that you require access by completing the Co-location Access Request Form on the Ipera Helpdesk site. Escort charges apply since we need to supervise access to ensure other client equipment is not effected. Call-out fees also apply when after-hours access is required. For the Co-location Access Request Form click here.

Does the Data Centre have environment monitoring / fire suppression technology?

The Ipera Data Centre has some of the most modern safety and security systems available, ensuring that your valuable equipment is safe and secure at all times. We currently have the following safety and security systems in place:

• Smoke detection system
• Secure access
• Redundant cooling
• Fire suppression
• Multiple redundant links to other carriers
• UPS Power Supply
• Heavy-duty diesel back-up generators

For sales resources relating to Ipera's Colocation Service in Newcastle, Australia, click here