Who Assigns Data Center Tiers?

When it comes to data center operations and maintenance, ensuring uptime and reliability is of vital importance. In order to standardize these attributes, certain classifications have been developed, referred to as "data center tiers". But who is responsible for assigning crucial tiers? Let's into it.

#Organisation of Tiers by the Uptime Institute

At the helm of the tier assignment is the Uptime Institute, an advisory organization dedicated to the standardization of uptime and reliability within the IT industry. This organization meticulously reviews and assesses data centers, determining a corresponding tier level that best describes the facility's capabilities.

Upon request from a data center operator, the Uptime Institute performs an in-depth analysis of the facility. This includes an assessment of the physical infrastructure, redundancy measures, cooling, power supply, security provisions, and more. Based on these factors, they assign a tier level, ranging from Tier 1 - basic infrastructure, to Tier 4 - fault tolerant site infrastructure.

## The Theory and The Practice

In an ideal world, every data center would undergo an official assessment from the Uptime Institute, and valuation of their tier level would be based on the unbiased verdict of this accredited body. However, as we all know, practice can, and often does deviate from theory.

There are instances where a data center self-labels their tier, describing their facilities as "Tier 3" or "Tier 4". Such cases blur the lines between self-claimed and officially accredited tiers, potentially causing confusion among prospects and customers.

## Beyond Tier 4 - The Myth of 'Tier 5'

Complicating matters further, some data centers claim to have achieved "Tier 5" certification. This assertion, however, is misleading. The Uptime Institute has clearly defined only four tier levels, with no official recognition for a Tier 5 data center classification. Thus, when a data center positions itself as a 'Tier 5' facility, it's akin to assigning themselves a level that isn't formally recognized, leading to further confusion.

The point here is audit and accreditation. A 'Tier 5' data center distinguishing themselves on their own terms places them outside the common benchmark, rendering the certified tier system less meaningful and potentially damaging for the industry as a whole.

## Verifying Tiers - Buyer Beware

In light of these inconsistencies and misleading information, it is incumbent upon potential customers to thoroughly verify a data center's tier level. This includes checking if the facility has been formally reviewed.

A quick way to verify this is by asking the data center for their certified tier documentation from the Uptime Institute. It's important to understand that formal review gives a more reliable and accurate reflection of the facility's infrastructure, considering all aspects of it, culminating in a tier status that you can trust.

# Conclusion

In summary, the Uptime Institute is the body responsible for assigning data center tiers. However, misleading practices have led to self-claimed tiers and non-existent tier classifications, something potential customers must be aware of. When selecting a data center, verifying their tier level through official documentation is an essential step in the right decision for your business's IT infrastructure. Remember, an informed customer is a wise customer.