When we evaluate datacenter quality, often time, we will look at datacenter tiering. Below is the table describes various Datacenter Tiers.
Tier 1 –
Has non-redundant capacity components and a single, non-redundant distribution path serving the computer equipment
Tier 2 –
Has redundant capacity components and a single, non-redundant distribution path serving the computer equipment.
Tier 3 –
(a) Has redundant capacity components and multiple independent distribution paths serving the computer equipment. Only one distribution path is required to serve the computer equipment at any time.
(b) All IT equipment is dual powered and installed properly to be compatible with the topology of the site’s architecture.
Tier 4 –
(a) Has multiple, independent, physically isolated systems that provide redundant capacity components and multiple, independent, diverse, active distribution paths simultaneously serving the computer equipment.
(b) All IT equipment is dual powered and installed properly to be compatible with the topology of the site’s architecture.
(c) Complementary systems and distribution paths must be physically isolated from one another (compartmentalized) to prevent any single event from simultaneously impacting both systems or distribution paths.
(d) Continuous cooling is required.