Guide explains how data center tiers work

The article explains how data center tier classifications work and how buyers should evaluate certifications, SLAs, and operating practices.

• It outlines the Uptime Institute tier system, including Tier I to Tier IV, and explains that Tier III means concurrently maintainable while Tier IV means fault tolerant with physically isolated redundant systems.
• It also compares Uptime Institute certifications with ANSI/TIA-942 Rated-1 to Rated-4, notes that claims such as “Tier III equivalent” are self-assessments, and says buyers should verify the certification body, stage, date, and directory listing; it references Digital Edge’s NARRA1 facility in Manila as a Rating-3 example.