A brief reflection on containerized and modular data center solutions. Find out which option will work better for your IT infrastructure.
To begin with: “It depends” – the most honest answer
Let’s start with the most frequently repeated truism – there is no more accurate answer to this question than the classic “it depends.” It depends on your current (and future) needs and use cases, organizational and financial capabilities, and the scale of your operations. Truism no. 2 – there are no universal or perfect solutions for every use case.
That’s why the purpose of this article is not to list the key differences between the two solutions and declare a definitive winner. Rather, we aim to highlight that choosing a particular data center model brings specific consequences that significantly impact your business's operational capabilities.
KLAS Mobile Edge Solution
Edge servers – so-called "edge" – are the foundation of the edge computing concept: a data processing model where computation and analysis occur as close as possible to the data source – at the “edge” of the network, rather than in a centralized cloud or traditional on-premise infrastructure. There are many vendors offering this type of hardware, but in our opinion, KLAS solutions deserve particular recognition in this field.
- The uniqueness of this technology lies primarily in the compact size of the individual modules while maintaining computational power, bandwidth, multiple protocol support, and storage capacity typically associated with much larger “classic” servers, routers, or arrays. For example, the TRX connectivity module offers LTE, 5G (SIM card slots), Wi-Fi, Ethernet, GPS, and SD-WAN. The NAS module, on the other hand, features Intel Xeon/Atom 8-core processors, 48 GB RAM, and up to 240 TB storage capacity.
- All of this fits into Voyager mobile suitcase systems – Kevlar cases where you can install any selected modules. Fully rack-compatible, they can be mounted not only in traditional server rooms but also in wheeled vehicles, boats, or other non-standard locations. Important note: a fully “equipped” suitcase weighs under 40 kg and can be transported in an airplane luggage hold – the case comes with wheels and a retractable handle, and resembles a classic tower PC.
- KLAS hardware falls into the “rugged” category – fully military-grade build standards make the equipment resistant to extreme weather and terrain conditions, making it reliable and unique compared to traditional hardware of this type. Many modules don’t require dedicated cooling, and nearly all can run on external battery power. In short: mobility, mobility, and more mobility.
KLAS edge modules can supplement a traditional data center – especially as a fully portable data backup. They also serve as standalone field stations when establishing stable communication in remote, undeveloped locations or in areas affected by natural disasters or other disruptions to local infrastructure. Opting for a KLAS solution gives you a product with specific parameters, practically ready for use. Setup is extremely simple – many modules include a Voyager Ignition Key slot – an NVMe card where you can store a specific configuration in the form of an Ansible playbook for easy on-site deployment. KLAS edge modules are scalable based on your current needs.
Containerized Server Rooms
Containerized server rooms are another response to the need for field-based data processing. As the name suggests, it’s a classic server room setup deployed inside a specially adapted shipping container, which provides not only the necessary space for your hardware but also power, backup power, and optimal cooling. As such, it is a viable solution for temporary field projects.
- What’s particularly characteristic of this solution is the requirement to organize and secure a physical location for the installation – a containerized server room needs a stable surface equivalent to one or more 20- or 40-foot containers (about 14 m² or 28 m²). It must house not only your operational IT infrastructure but also all the equipment that supports it. The fact that we’re talking about a space roughly the size of a “Polish micro-apartment” means you can deploy a significant number of servers in one place, which is a definite advantage.
- However, the logistics of transporting such a setup may pose challenges for companies and institutions that need to relocate their server room periodically. It will likely require support from a specialized external provider unless the organization has its own technical capabilities for safely transporting such a complex setup.
- Another crucial logistical consideration is the time needed to deploy a containerized data center. Publicly available data suggests this takes approximately 2–3 months from the design stage to final on-site installation – much faster than building a traditional data center.
The initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs for a containerized data center are certainly higher than those for a mobile edge solution. That said, it allows you to deploy a much larger amount of equipment at once, although its scalability is ultimately limited by the space available and, again, by additional ongoing costs.
Containerized server rooms are a compelling option for deploying IT infrastructure for temporary projects. Their main strength lies in the ability to deliver significant computing power in one go. However, keep in mind the limitations in terms of future expansion and the associated costs.
Summary
Both containerized data centers and mobile edge solutions have their unique use cases, but KLAS mobile edge stands out in terms of flexibility and immediate readiness. It is clearly the more mobile, quicker-to-deploy, and practical choice in unstable or dynamic environments.
On the other hand, containerized server rooms are better suited to projects requiring significant power and infrastructure for extended periods in one fixed location. However, these benefits come with requirements for secured physical space, longer deployment time (2–3 months), and higher ongoing maintenance and relocation cost.
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