SotaConnect Data Centre

The SotaConnect Data Centre provides all the features and benefits of a metropolitan hosting centre with the convenience and added security of a green-field site. Colocation services services include server hosting, server housing, lockable 1/4, 1/2 and full racks, co-lo footprints, Internet access, national Ethernet services, London backhaul, managed services, back-up management, engineer remote hands, and disaster recovery seats in the SotaConnect workplace recovery suite.

Strategic Location:
Data centres in city locations not only suffer from high running costs, but are also exposed to an ever-increasing risk of disruption by terrorism and a vulnerable transport infrastructure. Traditional hosting centres such as London, are losing their appeal, particularly when business continuity is at stake. The SotaConnect Data Centre is strategically located just 40 miles from central London close to the motorway infrastructure and main line rail links. It is close enough to London to be practical, but far enough to be safe.

Connectivity: The SotaConnect Data Centre is located in close proximity to numerous international networks providing the highest levels of resilient connectivity, almost unlimited bandwidth, and direct access to some of the world's largest Internet backbones. It is fully integrated with a national Ethernet network managed by Neos and powered by state-of-the-art DWDM and CWDM technology.

Security:
The SotaConnect Data Centre is located within a 25 acre ring-fenced Research Centre at the heart of the Kent Science Park. Physical security features include razor-wire fencing to all boundaries and a bullet-proof/blast-proof security gatehouse. Surveillance measures include 24x7 manned security and extensive CCTV monitoring. In addition, a centrally controlled access system monitors and manages all aspects of access into and within the site.

Power:
12MW of Grid power is available on-site as well as up to 10MW from an independent eco-friendly power station located on-site (live early 2008). The SotaConnect Data Centre is also supported by redundant UPS and auxilliary diesel generators, so down-time through power-loss is virtually eliminated. Maximum power allowance per rack is 32A, exceeding the power allowances of many traditional data centres.

Environmental Controls:
Within the data centre, raised flooring throughout supports down-flow air-conditioning and humidity control (N+1), and air flow is maximised with the consistent use of mesh-style full height racks. The air conditioning system is fully redundant ensuring constant cooling even in the event of a major component failure. State-of-the-art OxyReduct fire suppression systems prevent combustion and virtually eliminate the risk of fire. Oxygen reduction technology is superior to traditional gas and mist systems which require a fire to start before activating.

24/7 Access:
The central access control system facilitates secure access to equipment within the Data Centre at any time of the night or day. All movements into, out of and around the facility are recorded digitally. Identification and authentication is provided by Cotag cards linked to the access control system.

Connectivity:
The SotaConnect Data Centre is carrier neutral. In addition to BT infrastructure, dark fibre has been dug into the facility by other national carriers providing resilience and virtuallly unlimited bandwidth.

Sota Solutions Limited, Kent, United Kingdom
Kent Science Park, ME9 8PX Sittingbourne
ME9 8PX