What to expect on your first colocation experience

So, you’ve ordered your first colocation package (whether a single server in a shared rack or your very own dedicated rack), and you’re wondering what to expect from your first visit to the data centre? Don’t worry,  this guide walks you through the process so you’ll arrive prepared and know exactly how things work.

Shared Rack

• • Networking & IPs
    All IP addresses and network details are provided ahead of time. This allows you to configure your equipment before arrival, so you can get online quickly once installed.
  • Access Request
    Submit an access request via your client area. This ensures the data centre knows when to expect you and can prepare accordingly.
  • What to Bring
    Think ahead and make a checklist:
    • Tools (screwdrivers, etc.)
    • Rack rails (unless you’ve ordered a rack shelf with your package)
    • All required equipment (servers, switches, firewalls, etc.)
    • Correct power cables – most DC racks use IEC C14 outlets on the PDUs, so the data centre will provide safe and tested IEC C13 (“kettle leads”).
    • Smaller devices such as 8-port firewalls often use a standard 3-pin UK plug, so make sure you’ve ordered a C14 to UK mains socket adapter if needed.
  • Arrival & Check-In
    When you arrive, you’ll be signed in at reception and your ID will be checked. You’ll then be escorted to the build room.
  • Build Room
    The build room is designed for staging and last-minute setup:
    • Workbench and stools
    • PDU with available outlets
    • Shared screen (VGA/HDMI)
    • USB keyboard and mouse

    Here you can configure your servers before they are installed in the rack.

• Racking Your Device(s)
  Once configured, a data centre technician will rack your devices for you. From the build room, you’ll have network and Wi-Fi access to connect to your equipment once it’s online.
• Future Access
  If you need physical access later (to troubleshoot or upgrade), this will usually be via an escorted visit to the shared rack.
• Asset Management
  The data centre tech will label your devices as part of asset tracking and management.
• Next Steps
  Once everything is online, familiarise yourself with the colocation control panel. This will allow you to:
  • Perform remote reboots
  • Monitor bandwidth usage
  • Review network details

• ⚡ Tip: It’s highly recommended to use equipment with remote management capabilities, such as IPMI, iDRAC, or iLO with built-in KVM-over-IP. This will save you trips to the data centre.

That’s it – your shared rack setup is complete!

Dedicated Rack

• Networking & IPs
  Just like with shared racks, your IP details will be provided in advance so you can preconfigure equipment if you wish.
• Access Request
  Submit an access request via your client area before visiting.
• What to Bring
  Be thorough in your preparation:
  • Tools (screwdrivers, cable ties, cutters, etc.)
  • Label maker
  • Rack rails (for mounting servers)
  • Cage nuts and bolts
  • Correct power cables (IEC C13 leads for most rackmount devices)
  • IEC C14 to UK mains socket adapter (for devices with standard 3-pin plugs)
• Arrival & Check-In
  You’ll sign in at reception, present your ID, and be granted access to the data hall.
• Finding Your Rack
  Racks are arranged in rows labelled A, B, C, D, with racks numbered sequentially (e.g., A1–12, B1–12). Once you’ve located your rack, set your combination lock codes for both front and rear doors.
• Racking Your Equipment
  Be mindful of airflow:
  • Cold aisle = front of servers
  • Hot aisle = rear of servers
    This ensures efficient cooling and keeps the DC’s airflow system effective.
• Networking Setup
  Connect your switch to the ordered uplinks:
  • Standard options include 1Gbps RJ45 copper or 10Gbps LC fibre.
  • Dual uplinks can be provided as two independent connections or as an LACP bonded pair, depending on your needs and hardware support.
• Labelling Best Practices
  • Label each device clearly. This helps DC technicians during remote hands or emergency work.
  • Label your power cables or at least note which PDU outlet powers which device. This is crucial for targeted remote reboots.
  • Label or document your network cables and switch ports for quick reference.
• On-Site Tools
  • A crash cart (screen and keyboard) is available in the data hall.
  • If you prefer, you can use the build room to work outside of the live data hall environment.
• Final Steps
  Once racked and powered, familiarise yourself with the colocation control panel for reboots, monitoring, and bandwidth visibility.
• ⚡ Tip: Just like with shared racks, remote management features (IPMI, iDRAC, iLO with KVMoIP) are a lifesaver when you can’t get to the rack.

And that’s it – your dedicated rack is ready for action!