The concept of a modular data center solution has often been ambiguous. However, through the evolution of modular solutions and vendor marketing, clearer definitions and categorizations have emerged over time.
Data centers of the future are moving away from traditional design principles, with modular products and providers leading the way into a new era. A modular data center integrates factory-built modules or delivers data center infrastructure in a modular fashion.
Modular solutions combine the best practices in design, reliability, and efficiency into prefabricated, repeatable, and operationally optimized modules.
The modular market began with the use of ISO (International Standards Organization) shipping containers and has since evolved into a diverse market. Vendors now produce a range of modular designs and solutions for IT, power, and cooling—from containers to various modular products.
In many ways, the shift towards cloud computing parallels the adoption of modular data center approaches.