Data Center Downtime

Understanding the Consequences of Data Center Downtime

A study by Ponemon in 2016 highlights the staggering impact of unplanned data center outages, with costs averaging $9,000 per minute and reaching a maximum of $2,409,991. Beyond financial implications, outages can compromise data integrity, damage essential equipment, obstruct productivity, and tarnish your brand’s image.

Key Triggers for Data Center Disruptions

Maintaining high reliability in data centers is critical. The Ponemon study identified several primary causes:

  • UPS System Failures – responsible for 25% of incidents
  • Human Errors and Cyber Threats – contribute to 22% of incidents
  • Other factors include: Water, heat or CRAC failures, and weather-related incidents

Despite the inevitability of internal and external challenges, adopting a proactive stance can provide a strategic advantage and effectively mitigate potential risks.

Proactive Steps to Minimize Downtime

A thorough evaluation of your IT infrastructure can help prevent frequent causes of downtime, ensuring future preparedness.

  • Battery Monitoring: A single malfunctioning battery cell can jeopardize the entire backup power system. Implementing a battery maintenance strategy helps pinpoint system irregularities and forecast end-of-life, enabling informed decision-making.

Using tools like Vertiv’s Data Center Planner can help identify battery issues before they affect operations. Access comprehensive, current data concerning devices, equipment locations, and power usage to make installations and changes confidently without compromising availability.

  • Adopt Lithium-Ion Batteries: These batteries, tailored for UPS applications, are more compact, lighter, and longer-lasting than traditional VRLA batteries. They demand less maintenance and feature reduced cooling needs, lowering operating expenses.
  • Routine Preventive Maintenance: Maintain your data center’s cleanliness and engage in preventive upkeep to safeguard your infrastructure. Addressing environmental threats, such as moisture and humidity, is vital to prevent component corrosion and power failures.
  • Continual Training: Since human error is a major downtime cause, consistent communication and training are crucial. Regularly updating procedures ensures everyone understands common threats and appropriate responses, thus enhancing problem-solving capabilities.
  • Frequent Evaluations: For peak availability and productivity, consider our performance optimization and data center assessment services. Our comprehensive evaluations identify vulnerabilities and assist in crafting tailored plans for your infrastructure and budget.

Engage with J.S. Fleming

As a proud partner of Vertiv, we are dedicated to enabling your success. Reach out to us today to explore our solutions for minimizing downtime and enhancing availability. For personalized assistance, call us at 508.460.0904.

FAQs on Data Center Downtime

  • What is the average cost of data center downtime? Data center outages can cost an average of $9,000 per minute, with potential costs reaching over $2 million.
  • What are common causes of downtime? Primary causes include UPS failures, human errors, cyber attacks, and external factors like environmental conditions.
  • How can battery issues be monitored? Implement a battery maintenance program and use tools like Vertiv’s Data Center Planner to detect anomalies early.
  • Why consider lithium-ion batteries? They are more compact, require less maintenance, and have lower cooling requirements, making them cost-effective.
  • What steps can reduce human error? Regular training and clear communication of updated procedures can significantly reduce errors and response times.
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