When a user opts for a co-location web hosting package, it gives them the combined advantage of dedicated hosting in terms of security and protection. It also gives the user complete control over the scalability and control of owning their own hardware.
This implies that with co-location hosting, the hosting provider allows the user to physically house the server at their dedicated facility that is highly secure as well as offers dedicated Internet connections, support and regulated power. This ensures that the user gets access to maximum uptime and extensive security. These high-security features could include fire detection, fire extinguishing devices, cameras, backup power generators, multiple connections and filtered power.
It is important to evaluate one’s hosting requirements as well as level of hosting services required so that you can request for a customized co-location hosting package, if offered by the hosting company. Ascertaining your needs in advance will give you an idea about which “add-ons” to include within the hosting package, the type of security offered the host, level of security for data storage etc. All this would eventually save you loads of time and money and you would not exceed your budget limits either.
The user also needs to ensure where exactly his server would be located. It is imperative that the host offers 24/7 monitoring and the server is housed in an extensively secure environment and the company has a skilled staff of professional technicians who completely understand hardware architecture and networking. Also, remember that with co-location you are actually renting the physical space at the facility to house the server and you should have 24/7 access to their data center. If your visiting hours are just restricted to the working hours of their office, you could find yourself in a loss especially if your website goes down at 3 in the morning.
Next thing to keep in mind with co-location server is to find out how your server is connected. Two main connections come into play: The connection from your control center to your server which determines the accessibility speed of the systems and the other is the connection from your server to the Internet. The latter determines the bandwidth and subsequent traffic that your website is allowed to handle. Also ensure that the facility is amply equipped with 24 armed security, uninterrupted power supply and high-grade fire extinguishing systems.
Source: http://www.a1articles.com/