Data Center
Why Steadfast Networks is the place to be.
Steadfast Networks operates out of its own state of the art data center located in downtown Chicago, Illinois located in the Lakeside Technology
Center, Suite 240, the same building in which Equinix is located. The data center offers complete redundancy in power, HVAC, network connectivity,
and security. The datacenter facility sits atop multiple power grids driven by ComEd, with full UPS battery backup power and a diesel generators onsite. Our network is supplied by
several separate networks including, Level(3), Savvis and AT&T. Dozens more third party backbone providers are available in the building via
cross connect, such as MCI, Global Crossing, Abovenet, Qwest, XO Communication, Sprint, Williams, and Cogent. The fiber provided to the data
center is also provided over redundant paths, with two 10 Gigabit Ethernet lines from our cabinet in Equinix, on the 5th floor, and several pairs of
fiber to providers in the Meet-Me Room on the 2nd floor. The data center was previously operated by 360 Networks with everything built to
telecommunications grade specifications and it has maintained full operation, without any failures, since it was constructed.
Why Chicago?
More long haul fiber goes through Chicago than any other city in the United States. Most of the fiber connecting the East and West coasts of the United States goes through Chicago, giving Chicago ample network capacity as well as routes that offer low latency to both the East and West coasts. Chicago also has an extremely low occurence of natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, floods, and earthquakes compared to most of the rest of the United States, meaning there is a reduced risk of outages due to natural disasters. In addition, Chicago has a much lower average cost of living compared to other major markets such as New York, San Francisco, and Washington DC. The lower cost of living reduces the expenses we incur as a whole and allows us to pass those savings on to you.
Fire Suppression System
A state-of-the-art fire suppression system constantly monitors the physical environment for smoke, chemicals and other hazardous materials that might spark a fire. The data center uses a dual-interlock pre-action sprinkler system throughout the facility. These pipes are dry-filled with compressed air - until two alarm conditions are reached thereby releasing the valve to charge the system. Water is only released in the area when a sprinkler head has lost its seal, or is actuated, due to heat, AND the fire detection system has detected a fire condition. If a head is accidentally knocked off, water does not flow into the system. Any water discharged will be sprinkler-head specific, which will limit the potential for damage caused by over-spray.
Redundant and Precise HVAC System
Air control is critical in maintaining fast, efficient performance from our customers' equipment. To create the right environment, the data center is fitted with a comprehensive Liebert HVAC system that delivers constant, ideal air conditions, between 68 and 74 degrees Fahrenheit and between 40% and 50% relative humidity at all times. Our HVAC system uses efficient and effective chilled water cooling, not a standard forced/chilled air configuration. HVAC systems maintain a minimum of N+1 redundancy, allowing the data center to maintain a constant, cool environment that is conducive to our customers' mission-critical equipment and operations.
Redundant Power and UPS
The power systems are equipped with a level of redundancy that guarantees continuous operation. To ensure that the data center is always operational all the time, a multi-layer power generation system, using some of the highest grade equipment available, is in place. Conditioned AC power with two independent A & B power buses, respectively, is available. In addition, UPS, battery and diesel generators back up every power system. Unlike some other data centers the climate control and security measures are also backed up with redundant power to ensure clean operation during power outages. The UPS systems maintain three hours of battery backup and a 2 MW diesel generator is onsite for longer outages. If there are issues with the diesel generator the three hours of battery backup gives ample time to dispatch a portable diesel generator system, if needed.
Security
Visual confirmation and strict sign-in procedures, both conducted by trained security personnel, along with key cards, and photo ID verification ensure that only authorized personnel have access to our data center. No customers are allowed in our space unattended and staff is on-site 24/7. In addition, all aspects of the data center are monitored and recorded via color, hi-resolution digital video cameras. All video footage is kept on hand for a period of at least 30 days.
