Intelligent Data Centres Issue 67 | Page 39

F E A T U R E for greater control over data security , compliance and sustainability also fuels the return .
While some enterprises may want to adopt a hybrid approach , using a mix of on-prem and hybrid is an emerging trend . Research from Citrix indicates that 25 % of UK organisations have migrated more than half of their cloud-based workloads back .
Ultimately , moving to on-prem is still costly , so implementation must be concise . A successful on-prem data centre strategy hinges on the effective use of Digital Twins . This powerful tool provides valuable insights , enabling organisations to make performance-driven designs and insightful operational decisions .
Ensuring success from the start
By creating a virtual replica of a physical data centre , Digital Twins provide unparalleled insights that are impossible with pure monitoring or DCIM solutions . Physics-based Digital Twins enable datadriven decisions to optimise operations , from cooling system design to capacity planning . For instance , with liquid cooling , Digital Twins can allow testing of vendoragnostic what-ifs to help you ‘ try before you buy ’. This is done by the tool ’ s ability to test designs based on new cooling solutions in a virtual environment to ensure their effectiveness before they are applied in actual facilities .
For organisations reassessing their IT strategies and moving to on-prem , Digital Twins are instrumental in managing this change and ensuring continuous efficiency . The solution enables datadriven decision-making for operations across the entire data centre through simulations . Whether designing new facilities or managing existing infrastructure , the technology lets facilities enhance performance , reduce costs and minimise environmental impact . This is an ideal solution for many companies looking to take complete control of how their data is stored from a cost and sustainability perspective .
A Digital Transformation facilitator
Businesses ' need for IT infrastructure will only continue to increase . To keep pace with every other company and societal
Digital Transformation , data centres will evolve , too . Digital Twins are and will continue to be indispensable for modern data centres . Organisations will need efficient and sustainable data centres that

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Tim Ballard , Head of Product ( New & Aftermarket ), Finning UK & Ireland
AI ’ s role in optimising data centres
AI is transforming the landscape of data centre operations through the power of predictive analytics . This technology allows data centres to foresee potential issues before they arise , enabling proactive measures to be taken . By analysing historical data , sensor readings and energy consumption patterns , AI algorithms can predict when equipment might fail or require maintenance , particularly for cooling systems . This foresight allows data centres to schedule repairs and replacements efficiently , minimising downtime and ensuring seamless operations .
Moreover , AI-driven predictive analytics can significantly enhance the efficiency of cooling systems in data centres . By continuously monitoring temperature and humidity levels , AI can make realtime adjustments to optimise energy consumption . This not only reduces energy waste but also ensures that the cooling systems operate at peak performance , contributing to more sustainable and cost-effective data centre management .
Additionally , AI can optimise workload distribution within data centres . By can keep pace with AI and other emerging technologies . By harnessing the power of the simulations Digital Twins provides , data centres can ensure any Digital Transformation investment is a success .
analysing demand and priority , AI algorithms can allocate resources more efficiently , improving overall performance and reducing operational costs . This intelligent resource management ensures data centres can meet the growing demands of the digital age while maintaining high standards of efficiency and sustainability .
Transparency , accountability and sustainability
When utilising AI to enhance operations , it ’ s essential to consider the broader implications of its adoption . It ’ s crucial to ensure that algorithms are explainable , unbiased and aligned with ethical principles . Data centres must also prioritise sustainability in their AI initiatives , focusing on reducing their carbon footprint and promoting environmentally friendly practices . Embracing transparency , accountability and sustainability contributes to a more responsible and sustainable future for the industry .
Collaboration and knowledge sharing among data centre operators , technology providers and industry stakeholders will be key to driving innovation and best practices in AI adoption . Creating a culture of collaboration and continuous learning encourages the industry to manage the challenges and opportunities presented by AI , paving the way for a more efficient , secure and sustainable future .
AI in bolstering security
The potential benefits of AI are not only enhancing efficiencies and sustainability , though . AI should be considered an important tool for bolstering data centre security , especially the more sophisticated cybersecurity threats that are emerging – some of which traditional security measures may not be able to stand up to .
AI-powered security solutions can detect and respond to potential threats in realtime , reducing the risk of data breaches
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