Cloud computing requires a huge amount of power. A continuous supply of electricity is needed to keep servers running day and night, as well as cooling systems to stop equipment overheating.
The data centres used to provide cloud services need to run 24/7, without even a moment’s downtime. This is where power backup systems come in, providing critical support just in case the mains power should fail or there’s a fault in the local network.
Cloud Data Centres And The Need For Backup Power
Unless you’ve visited one or you work in the industry, it’s quite difficult to fully grasp just how large, complicated and power-hungry a cloud data centre can be. A typical setup may involve thousands of servers, supported by complex networking equipment and cooling fans.
These data centres never sleep, because they support critical national infrastructure including health and transport, as well as major multinational business operations. Everything from the signalling systems on the rail network through to the NHS’s data systems run or in some way depend on cloud computing, or will do in the future.
Unfortunately, data centres can be vulnerable to the same risks as other businesses and operations. Local grid failures, power surges, cyber attacks and even natural disasters can all cause major disruption. Even if not required to keep critical infrastructure running, data centres may still need to meet minimum Service Level Agreements (SLA) with their clients, or they could face major penalties.
For all these reasons and more, it’s absolutely essential to have cloud data centre backup plans in place. This typically involves two levels of support: Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), with generators acting as a secondary power source.
UPS Systems For Continuous Cloud Operations
Experts in server room power solutions would nearly always recommend installing an uninterruptible power supply for cloud data centres. Known as a UPS, this is a system which automatically provides emergency power when the mains power fails.
A UPS is used as the first line of defense when preparing for unexpected scenarios like power failures. This is because it kicks in instantly, whereas a generator may take up to a minute to fully launch and start taking the load. This is sometimes known as the ‘transfer gap’.
It may not sound like much, but in the world of cloud computing even a few seconds of disruption is unacceptable. Not only can it breach SLAs or cause dangerous downtime in critical systems, but it can also cause sensitive IT equipment to be damaged.
With a UPS installed, there’s complete peace of mind that power will automatically and immediately be switched over.
Generators As Secondary Power Sources
A UPS may effectively bridge the transfer gap, but it can’t power a full data centre indefinitely, or even a few hours. This is why it’s best used in conjunction with a backup generator. The UPS handles the initial emergency, before handing over to the generator. This will then power critical data centre operations until mains power is restored or the fault is fixed.
To work properly when it really counts, emergency generators for IT centres need to be properly scaled and sized. A professional on-site assessment is essential, to gauge the power demand and design a system that can handle the load in case of mains power failure.
Another crucial component to know about is the automatic transfer switch (ATS). This is sensitive equipment which detects a power failure and triggers both the UPS (which starts immediately) and the generator (which may take a little longer to start up).
How To Maintain Cloud Backup Systems
Any investment in UPS and backup generator systems is essentially wasted without rigorous maintenance.
Regular scheduled maintenance and testing is important for ensuring the system works properly when the moment comes when it’s really needed. A proactive approach can prevent failures and faults before they happen.
Cloud providers and data centres must also adhere to strict maintenance schedules as part of SLAs and compliance rules. For example, as part of the cloud security shared responsibility model, a framework which makes cloud service providers (CSPs) responsible for the fundamental security of the infrastructure.
Scheduled Testing And Maintenance Plans
The following should all be part of routine testing and maintenance plans for cloud data centre backup systems:
- Load bank testing for generators to ensure full capacity under real load conditions
- Battery inspections and replacements for UPS systems
- Inspections and testing of automatic transfer switches (ATS)
- Fuel monitoring and inspection.
The frequency of inspections may vary depending on the business need. Generally speaking, monthly checks and visual inspections are recommended, with testing carried out quarterly and the whole system serviced annually. Everything should be fully documented for compliance reporting purposes.
Remote Monitoring For Cloud Infrastructure
Another protection that cloud data centres can put in place alongside maintenance and testing is remote monitoring.
This can track generator and UPS performance in real time, so faults can be detected earlier. It also helps with scheduling predictive and proactive maintenance, monitoring fuel levels and optimising efficiency.
Ultimately, it all helps to ensure complete business continuity, ensuring data centres stay compliant and reducing downtime.
