What Is Direct Connect? A Clear Guide for Enterprises
Businesses move more of their work to the cloud every year. For example according to Synergy Research Group, companies spent about USD 330 billion on cloud infrastructure in 2024. This is also more than USD 60 billion in 2023. As cloud use grows, companies need a faster and more stable way to connect to cloud services. This is why direct connect is important. It gives companies a private connection to cloud platforms without using the public internet. Direct connect is useful for companies that move large amounts of data, run important systems, or need very fast response time. For example, this includes hyperscalers, OTT providers, and telecom companies. In this guide, we explain what it is, how much it costs, and how companies can set it up. What is direct connect? A private network connection links a company’s office or data center directly to a cloud provider’s network. Unlike a normal internet connection, it does not use the public internet. Instead, it uses a dedicated fiber connection. Because of this, it makes the connection more stable, secure, and consistent. For instance, major cloud providers offer this service with different names, such as AWS Direct Connect, Azure ExpressRoute, and Google Cloud Interconnect. Direct connect is helpful for companies that move a lot of data or run important systems. Because the traffic does not pass through the public internet, it avoids many common internet problems like slow speeds or unstable performance. As a result, this helps companies get lower delay, higher bandwidth, and a more reliable connection to cloud services. It is not free, but it can help companies reduce network costs compared to using the public internet. In general, there are usually two main costs: port hours and data transfer fees. Port hours are the cost of keeping the connection port active. Data transfer fees apply to data that leaves the cloud. In many cases, data sent into the cloud is free, which helps reduce total costs. How to set up a direct connect Setting up direct connect takes several steps. Companies usually work with a cloud provider and a network infrastructure partner to build the connection. Step 1: Choose a cloud providerFirst, choose the cloud provider you want to use. Then check the nearest location where a private connection service is available. Step 2: Choose the connection typeNext, decide if you want a dedicated connection or a hosted connection. This choice affects the cost and the speed of the connection. Step 3: Work with a network providerA network provider will install the fiber cable between your office or data center and the direct connect location. This physical link is very important for good performance. Step 4: Set up virtual interfacesAfter the cable is ready, you need to configure virtual interfaces (VIFs). These control how data traffic moves between your network and the cloud. Step 5: Test and monitor the connectionFinally, test the connection to check speed and delay. Cloud providers also offer tools to monitor bandwidth and connection health. The physical connection depends on the quality of the fiber network. Because of this, choosing the right network partner is very important. A provider that owns its own fiber network and covers many routes can give a more stable and reliable connection. Your Next Step Toward Better Cloud Connectivity Direct connect is a simple and cost-effective solution for companies that depend on the cloud. Instead of using the public internet, it creates a stable private connection directly to a cloud provider’s network. As cloud workloads and data continue to grow, this type of connection helps companies improve performance, security, and cost control. The strength of a direct connect setup depends on the fiber network behind it. ARNet is a dark fiber infrastructure provider in Southeast Asia with an AI-grade fiber network that spans more than 10,000 km. Its network connects over 60 data centers across major markets such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Key routes include Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Cyberjaya, Jakarta, Batam, and Singapore. ARNet owns and operates its full infrastructure. This includes fiber cables and optical line amplifier (OLA) stations. Everything is built and managed by its in-house engineering team. Its FiberGrid architecture runs through highways, railways, metro routes, and submarine landing points. This design creates strong route diversity and high reliability, with a committed SLA. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Choosing the Right Cable Duct for Data Centers and Telecom Networks
Network systems are growing fast worldwide. Because of this, more data centers, cloud services, and telecom networks are being built every year. As these grow, managing the cables inside becomes more important. A cable duct is one of the main tools that helps organize and protect cables. Without good cable management, cables can break, network speed can slow down, and repairs can be costly. For companies in telecom, data center, and cloud sectors, such as hyperscalers, OTT providers, and telcos, knowing about ducts from the start can save time, money, and effort during setup. Also, understanding the different types and how they compare to cable trays helps plan installations more efficiently. This article explains the types and benefits in simple words. What is a cable duct? A cable duct is a protective channel that guides and holds a cable inside a building, facility, or outside space. It also keeps a cable in place and protects it from damage, moisture, dust, heat, and other risks. This system is used in data centers, telecom buildings, offices, and industrial sites. According to Market Research Future, the global market was worth USD 4.64 billion in 2024 and may reach USD 7.2 billion by 2035. This shows that more companies want an organized and safe cable system in telecom and data center networks around the world. What are the different types of cable ducts? Cable ducts come in different types for different needs, including plastic PVC, metal, concrete, fiber, and flexible. Each type has its own benefits, such as: Choosing the right type depends on the location, cable type, and how much protection is needed. What is the difference between cable duct and cable tray? The main difference is that a cable duct fully protects a cable, while a cable tray only holds it without covering. The duct one gives stronger protection against dust, moisture, and damage, while a cable tray allows easier access to a cable, which makes maintenance faster. Both help organize a cable, but a closed cable duct is better when protection is the main concern, like outdoors, underground, or in data centers. Getting the right physical layer for your network Cable ducts are a key part of any strong network. They keep cables organized and safe, which helps networks work well over time. Choosing the right type, like plastic for indoor, metal for industrial, concrete for underground, or fiber microducts for fast optical networks, depends on the project. A good physical layer ensures everything built on top works properly. What goes inside the ducts matters too. Dark fiber networks need well-planned ducts to carry fiber over long distances, between cities, and into data centers. That is why working with a trusted dark fiber provider is important. ARNet is a dark fiber company serving hyperscalers, OTT providers, and major telcos in Southeast Asia. Its networks cover Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, offering long haul fiber, metro fiber, and last mile fiber solutions. ARNet owns over 10,000 km of cable ducts and fiber lines, connecting more than 60 data centers. For hyperscalers, OTT companies, and telcos, having strong ducts and a reliable fiber network is very important. ARNet is the only provider in Southeast Asia with all major network licenses in one company, so there’s no need for third parties. This makes deployment faster, service consistent, and uptime guaranteed over 99.99%. ARNet’s team handles everything from planning to installation, giving operators a clear and predictable process. For companies looking to grow digital networks in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, or Thailand, ARNet provides the coverage and reliability needed to meet rising demand. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Understanding the 7 OSI Network Layers for B2B Connectivity
Data does not move from one device to another in one step. Instead, it moves through a system called network layers. These layers are rules that explain how data is sent and received in a network. At the same time, it only works with the layer above it and the layer below it. It is easier to manage, fix, and improve a network without affecting the whole system. Because of this system, the process is easier to understand. In this way, the layers split the process into simple steps. For example, people most commonly use the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model to explain layers. However, the full OSI model has seven layers. Because of this difference, it is important to understand the complete structure. Therefore, this article explains all seven layers in simple and easy words so you can see how they connect to each other. What are the 7 layers of networking? The seven network layers come from the OSI model. In simple terms, this model shows how data moves from one device to another on a network. In some cases, people explain networking using only five layers. However, the full OSI model has seven layers. Learning all seven layers helps you better understand how devices talk to each other. With that in mind, below is a simple explanation of each layer. Layer 1: The physical The physical layer is the lowest layer. It sends data as simple bits through cables or fiber optic lines. Dark fiber works at this level. Dark fiber is a fiber optic cable that is already in the ground but not turned on. When a company connects its own equipment, the fiber becomes the path that carries data in the network. Layer 2: The data link The data link Layer helps two devices talk to each other on the same network. At this stage, the system groups small pieces of data (bits) into frames. This layer also checks if there are errors and uses MAC addresses to make sure the data goes to the right device. Because of this, communication inside a local network becomes more stable and more reliable. Layer 3: The network The network layer is one of the main network layers that sends data between different networks. It uses IP addresses to decide where the data should go. Routers work at this level. Because of this, data can travel across many connected networks around the world. Layer 4: The transport The transport layer is one of seven layers that makes sure data arrives in the right order. This layer also controls how fast data moves. Two main protocols work here. TCP makes sure data goes safely and correctly. People often use it for websites and email. UDP sends data faster but does not always check for errors. It is often used for video streaming and live services. Layer 5: The session The session layer is one of the seven layers that help devices communicate with each other. This layer starts, keeps, and ends connections. If the connection stops, the Session Layer helps the data continue instead of starting again from the beginning. Because of this, communication stays stable and smooth. Layer 6: The presentation The presentation layer is one of the seven layers that prepares data before it is used. It changes data into a form that both the sender and receiver can understand. It also keeps data safe with encryption and makes files smaller with compression. Some formats it works with are SSL/TLS, JPEG, and ASCII. Through these tasks, the network layers help keep data safe and easy to use on different devices. Layer 7: The application The application layer is the top layer and the closest to the end user. This layer connects the system to apps like web browsers and email apps. It uses rules like HTTP, SMTP, FTP, and DNS. Because users use these apps directly, this is where they can see and feel how well the connection works, especially for cloud and OTT services. Network layers and the infrastructure behind them The seven layers are the base of all network communication. Each layer works with the layer below it. At the bottom is the Physical Layer, which uses fiber optic cables to send data. The quality and size of this fiber affect how well the layers above it work. Across Southeast Asia, the need for fiber keeps growing as more people use data. Companies in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand need more capacity to support digital services. Dark fiber supports the lowest of network layers by giving a private physical path. Because it is not shared with other users, businesses have full control over their network. ARNet owns and operates more than 10,000 kilometers of fiber network across Southeast Asia, serving hyperscalers and major companies in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. It provides long distance fiber between cities and countries, metro fiber in urban areas, and last mile fiber for direct data center connections. By managing its own network and licenses, ARNet strengthens the foundation of all network layers and supports uptime of more than 99.99% across its infrastructure. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
7 Common Cable Transmission Damage Causes (and Repair Costs)
Cable transmission is the process of sending data and signals through physical cables like fiber optic and copper cables. Many businesses use these cables to connect to the internet, run cloud systems, and manage data centers. Because businesses depend on the internet every day, the cables must work well all the time. If there is a problem with the cable, the connection can become slow or stop working. Over time, cables can have problems. They can be damaged by weather, age, animals, or construction work. Sometimes the damage happens slowly, and sometimes it happens suddenly. When cables are damaged, the network may not work properly. That is why it is important to understand what cable transmission is, what can cause damage, and how much it may cost to fix it. This helps businesses prepare and avoid bigger problems later. What is cable transmission? Cable transmission is a way to send data through cables from one place to another. The cables can be fiber optic, coaxial, or copper. The cable works like a path that carries signals between devices, buildings, or cities. The signal moves inside the cable, so it stays steady and clear. Because of this, many organizations use cable transmission for internet networks, office connections, and data centers. Many companies choose cables instead of wireless because cables are more stable and safer. They can also carry a large amount of data over long distances. That is why it is very important for daily business use. Common cable damage causes Cables are built to last many years. However, several factors can reduce their performance. Below are the most common causes. How much does it cost to fix a transmission cable? The cost to repair a cable depends on where it is broken and how bad the damage is. Based on the 2025 to 2026 Fiber Optic Cable Repair Cost Guide by Latest Cost, fixing a damaged fiber cable usually costs between USD 300 and USD 5,000 for one job. This price often includes finding the problem, fixing the broken cable, paying the workers, and testing the cable after the repair. The guide also states that simple repairs in easily accessible locations cost less money. But if the cable is under the ground, under a road, or in a hard place to reach, the cost can be much higher. Connectors and other additional materials can add around USD 150 to USD 3,500 to the total cost, depending on what you need. So, the total repair cost depends on the damage, the location, and the type of cable transmission system. Securing long term network performance Cable systems are very important for stable internet and smooth cable transmission. Over time, cables can become weak because of age, heat, water, or physical damage. If no one checks these problems, they can cause slow speeds or even lead to network failure. This can disturb business operations and daily activities. That is why regular checking and proper installation are very important. When network owners understand the risks, they can protect their cables and avoid big problems. Good maintenance also helps reduce repair costs and keeps the connection stable for a long time. For companies that need high capacity and safe connections, dark fiber is a good choice for cable transmission. Dark fiber allows businesses to control their own bandwidth and equipment without sharing with others. In Southeast Asia, ARNet provides dedicated dark fiber services in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. ARNet offers long distance fiber between cities, city fiber inside urban areas, and last mile fiber that connects directly to data centers and office buildings. Because ARNet owns and manages its own network, it can provide better quality, faster setup, and reliable service to support long term growth.
Understanding Broadband: Your Simple Guide to Internet Connections
Broadband is the internet connection that brings the online world into homes and businesses. People use the internet for work, school, shopping, and daily communication. Because of this, internet services keep growing every year. Grand View Research reported that the global market reached $500.30 billion in 2024. This number shows how important internet access has become in daily life. Many people feel confused when they hear technical terms about internet networks. For this reason, this guide explains broadband in simple words. You will learn what it means. You will also see how it is different from Wi-Fi. In addition, you will understand how it is installed. By the end, you will have a clear picture of how modern internet connections work. What do you mean by broadband? Broadband is a high-speed internet connection. It sends and receives data much faster than old dial-up connections. As a result, users can stream videos, join video calls, and download files without long waiting times. There are different types of internet connections available today. For example, fiber optic uses light signals through glass cables and offers very fast speeds. Cable internet delivers service through television cables, while DSL uses telephone lines and works faster than dial-up. Even though these technologies are different, they all provide continuous internet access without dialing a phone number. Among these options, fiber broadband is very common. In fact, the Fiber Association reports that fiber now reaches 56.5% of U.S. homes in 2024. Is broadband and wi-fi the same thing? No, broadband is not the same thing as Wi-Fi. These are two different things that even work in different ways. It is the internet connection that comes from your service provider into your home or office. Wi-Fi shares that connection wirelessly with your devices. In simple words, it brings the internet to your building, and Wi-Fi spreads it inside. The internet line enters your home through a cable or fiber wire. After that, a router creates a Wi-Fi network. Your phone, laptop, and smart TV connect to this Wi-Fi network. Without it, Wi-Fi cannot provide internet access. How is broadband installed without a landline? Broadband is installed without a landline by using fiber optic cables, cable lines, or wireless technology instead of traditional telephone lines. Modern services do not require phone lines at all. The process varies by connection type: Moving forward with better connectivity Understanding internet service helps you choose the right option for your needs. For example, fiber optic broadband offers high speed and strong reliability, which makes it a popular choice for many businesses. As internet use continues to grow, strong infrastructure becomes even more important to support this demand. That is why good internet service always depends on the physical network behind it. Because businesses rely on daily online operations, they need stable and secure connections. To meet this need, dark fiber solutions give companies full control over their network. In Southeast Asia, ARNet operates a large fiber network to support this demand. The company serves hyperscalers and major businesses in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. To ensure wide coverage, the network includes long distance links between countries, metro fiber inside cities, and last mile fiber that connects directly to buildings. With dark fiber, companies can use their own equipment on dedicated lines. As a result, this setup provides high speed, strong security, and flexibility for broadband needs. To strengthen its position in the region, ARNet controls key licenses and infrastructure. The network now covers more than 10,000 kilometers and connects over 60 data centers. Since the company builds and operates its own infrastructure, it can help ensure stable performance. In addition, ARNet provides clear project timelines and careful monitoring. With a 99.99% uptime commitment, ARNet supports modern businesses with reliable connectivity across Southeast Asia. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
What Is Ethernet? A Simple Explanation for Beginners
Network connections are very important in today’s world because they keep offices, data centers, and businesses running smoothly. Among different connection types, Ethernet is one of the most trusted ways to connect devices. In fact, this wired connection has been used for many years in homes and offices, helping devices access the internet and communicate with each other. Moreover, wired connections are becoming more important as digital needs grow. For example, research by IMARC Group shows the global industrial market reached USD 12.19 billion in 2024. This means that many businesses rely on wired connections for their main network systems. Therefore, learning how wired connections work can help you make better choices for your network. What is ethernet used for? Ethernet is a way to connect devices in a network. For example, offices use it to join computers, printers, and servers. The cables move data between devices, so they can share information fast and safely. Also, data centers need wires. They have many servers that must work all the time. Because of this, wired connections are strong and do not fail. In the same way, factories use wires to connect machines. HMS Networks 2024 says 71% of new factory machines use networks, and this number grows every year. This shows wires are very important for industry. Besides, homes use Ethernet too. Gamers, people working from home, and people watching videos use wires because they are faster and do not drop. Even security cameras, smart devices, and video calls work better with wires. The difference between ethernet and internet Many people get confused between these two because they often work together. But they are not the same. Ethernet is the cable connection between devices. While the internet is the big network that lets you visit websites and use apps. Knowing this difference helps you see how devices talk to each other at home and online. How to set up an ethernet connection? There are several simple steps you can follow to set up ethernet. You can start by: Step 1: Check Your Equipment You need an Ethernet cable, a router or switch, and devices with network ports. Network ports look like wide phone jacks and may have a network symbol. Step 2: Connect the Cable Plug one end into your device and the other into your router or switch. You should hear a click. Your device usually detects the connection automatically. Step 3: Check the Connection Most devices show a network icon right away. You can run an online speed test to check performance. Step 4: Advanced Setup (Optional) For bigger setups, you might need switches or patch panels. Many businesses hire technicians to install structured cabling. Moving forward with network infrastructure Strong network connections need good planning and good equipment. Because businesses use more data, they need systems that can handle more traffic without slowing down. For example, some companies use dark fiber. Dark fiber is unused fiber cable that can send data very fast. Also, Ethernet works on this fiber to give fast and steady connections. ARNet provides hyperscaler-friendly dark fiber infrastructure in Southeast Asia. We help big companies and hyperscalers in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Our network is over 10,000 kilometers long and connects more than 60 data centers. It also links cities, connects buildings in cities, and reaches offices directly. With 99.99% uptime and fast setup, ARNet gives reliable networks that grow as your business grows. This means companies can use cloud apps, fast internet, and large data systems without problems. So, choosing ARNet makes your network ready for the future and able to handle new technology easily. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Understanding a Hyperscaler: The 5 Biggest Players in Global Cloud Computing
The digital world needs a huge amount of computing power to support online services, apps, and business work. This computing power is provided by a hyperscaler, which is a very large cloud company that runs huge data centers with thousands of servers. Because it controls such a large system, a hyperscaler can quickly add more capacity when demand increases. As more companies move their systems, data, and apps to the cloud, these providers have become the main base of today’s digital services. This growing need for cloud services can be seen in recent market data. Research from Omdia shows that global spending on cloud infrastructure services reached $102.6 billion in Q3 2025, showing 25% growth compared to the year before. This strong growth shows how much companies depend on hyperscale providers to run their daily operations. At the same time, SRG Research reports that the hyperscale data center market reached 1,136 facilities at the end of 2024, which is double the number from five years earlier. As the number of facilities keeps growing, the need for strong and stable network connections becomes even more important. For this reason, knowing the companies behind this infrastructure helps us understand how the global digital system keeps expanding. Who are the 5 major hyperscalers? The global hyperscale market is led by five big companies: AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, IBM Cloud, and Oracle Cloud. These hyperscaler providers build and run data centers in many regions around the world. Since their services must run all the time without stopping, they rely on powerful and stable network infrastructure. Each company has its own strategy, size, and focus, which affects how they build and grow their networks. 1. Amazon Web Services (AWS) AWS leads the global cloud market with almost 38% market share in 2024, based on Gartner data. The company itself also states that they have been operating in 38 regions and have more than nine million kilometers of network infrastructure. Its data centers use backup fiber paths and very high capacity connections that go beyond 25 terabits. This helps AWS provide reliable and high performance services to customers around the world. 2. Google cloud Google Cloud has around 12% of the global market in early 2025, based on the latest CRN news. It runs data centers across six continents, showing its strong global reach and focus on artificial intelligence (AI). As a major hyperscaler, Google builds its own special chips called TPUs to handle heavy AI workloads. It also operates highly efficient hyperscale facilities, including one in Finland. Besides performance, Data Center Knowledge also highlights that Google also focuses on sustainability. It is supported by the company statement that they aim to operate using carbon free energy by 2030. 3. Microsoft azure Microsoft Azure is a big cloud company. It has many places connected by fiber optic and undersea cables to keep the service running well. As more people use it, Microsoft adds more zones, especially in the United States, to lower the chance of problems. Azure also builds AI centers with good cooling systems for powerful computers. 4. IBM cloud IBM Cloud operates in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and South America. It focuses on hybrid cloud solutions, which combine public cloud services with private infrastructure. This model allows companies to protect sensitive data while still keeping flexibility. As a global hyperscaler, IBM is often chosen by industries with strict rules, such as banking and healthcare. This is because IBM offers strong security and compliance standards, which also shape how it designs its infrastructure and networks. 5. Oracle cloud Oracle Cloud runs 51 public cloud regions in 26 countries. Based on recent announcements from Oracle leadership in mid-2025, the company is growing fast with its multicloud plan by putting its hardware inside other big cloud providers’ data centers. This setup helps customers use more than one cloud in a simple and smooth way. Oracle is also spending a lot on power capacity for AI projects, showing steady growth in high-performance and AI-based infrastructure. Strengthening the hyperscaler foundation for digital expansion The five main hyperscalers control more than 70% of cloud services in the world, based on data from the Global Data Center hub. Their growth depends on strong links between data centers, because steady data flow supports all cloud work. Dark fiber is very important in this system, because it gives providers full control over speed, quality, and safety. In Southeast Asia, ARNet delivers hyperscaler-ready infrastructure designed to power the region’s next explained growth. The company works in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. It owns and runs more than 10,000 kilometers of fiber network. This network connects 60 data centers across the region, creating a strong and stable base for digital services and a hyperscaler. Businesses that need easy-to-grow connections for hyperscaler use can choose ARNet’s long haul, metro, and last mile fiber services with clear service guarantees. As one provider that holds all main licenses in the region, ARNet offers smooth end to end connections without needing many partners. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
7 Easy Ways to Improve Network Performance and Support Business Growth
Today, businesses need fast and reliable networks to stay ahead. A strong network helps companies save money and serve customers well. Knowing how networks work also helps businesses make better technology decisions. In this article, we explain what a good network is and share easy tips to improve it. These tips are very useful for companies using dark fiber networks to get the most value from their investment. What does network performance mean? Network speed and reliability shows how well a network works. It tells us how fast data moves and how stable the connections are between devices and services. A good network lets data travel quickly without problems. Key signs of a strong network include: By checking these indicators, companies can find problems and improve network performance. 7 Ways to improve network performance Here are simple steps to make network performance better: By following these steps, businesses can have a faster, smoother, and more reliable network. Factors that affect network performance Several things can slow down network performance: Paying attention to these factors helps companies optimize network operation. Building better networks for business success Good infrastructure is key to business success. In fact, strong connections help companies work faster and more efficiently. Moreover, knowing about network systems also helps businesses make better technology choices. For instance, businesses that need reliable networks can consider dark fiber as a smart option. ARNet provides dedicated fiber networks across Southeast Asia, with over 10,000 km of fiber connecting more than 60 data centers in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. In addition, ARNet offers long-distance connections, city fiber, and last-mile fiber, which together ensure fast and stable network performance. Unlike other providers, ARNet builds and runs its own networks instead of reselling services. Furthermore, it controls all major licenses in the region. ARNet works with big companies and hyperscalers, providing over 99.99% uptime. Therefore, for businesses that need steady, high-quality connections, ARNet is a strong choice for long-term success. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
What is an AI Data Center? Understanding the 4 Main Types
Artificial intelligence changes how businesses work. To make this possible, companies build AI data centers to run artificial intelligence programs. These buildings use powerful computers to handle heavy work. They store large amounts of data and drastically increase power consumption due to high-density computing needs. People build AI data centers to handle heavy computing, store large amounts of data, and use the high power AI systems needed. So what actually sets them apart? This article explains what makes these facilities unique and describes the four main types of data centers available. What is the AI data center? An AI data center is a special building that holds powerful computers for artificial intelligence. These computers are used to train models and run AI applications. Compared to normal software, these workloads need much more computing power. Because of this, the facility uses strong chips like GPUs and TPUs that can do many tasks at the same time. It uses very fast networks and large storage so data can move quickly between servers. As a result, AI systems can work faster and deliver better results. However, high performance brings challenges. An AI data center uses a lot of electricity and produces a lot of heat. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that data centers used about 415 TWh of electricity in 2024. This is 1.5% of all electricity in the world, and it has been growing about 12% every year. The report says that electricity use will double to about 945 TWh by 2030, taking up almost 3% of the world’s electricity, mainly because AI servers are growing fast. For this reason, strong power systems and advanced cooling keep operations safe and stable. What are the 4 types of data centers? Data centers come in four main types: onsite data centers, colocation facilities, hyperscale data centers, and edge data centers. These types support different needs and workloads, including those used in an AI data center. While they serve the same basic purpose, they differ in scale, location, and operation. The following sections explain each type in more detail. Infrastructure that powers AI growth AI data center do more than house powerful computers. They handle heavy workloads, store large amounts of data, and manage high electricity use safely and efficiently. What makes them unique is their use of advanced chips, fast networks, and strong cooling and power systems. As AI grows, businesses rely on these centers for speed, reliability, and flexibility in handling complex computing tasks. To support this growth, fast and stable networks are critical. Large amounts of data must move quickly between systems without delay. Dark fiber provides high speed, low latency, and reliable connections. This allows advanced computing workloads to run smoothly and scale when demand increases. In Southeast Asia, choosing the right network partner is key to success. ARNet builds dark fiber networks for hyperscalers and major players across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Our long-haul, metro, and last-mile fiber solutions give businesses full control over network speed and reliability. With our networks, companies can easily expand capacity as AI workloads grow, ensuring smooth performance at every stage. We give businesses the tools to build their AI data center. We help them grow across the region. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet
Data Center Infrastructure Management: 4 Key Things Every Business Should Understand
Modern businesses use technology to store and process data. When a business grows, it needs systems that are stable and easy to manage. Because of this, data center infrastructure management is important for many companies. In simple terms, data center infrastructure management puts different systems into one place. It connects building systems, IT equipment, and control tools. With this system, teams can see power use, cooling, and server space in real time. This helps them manage the data center better and prevent service downtime. What is data center infrastructure management? Data center infrastructure management is a system that manages buildings and IT equipment in a data center. It brings building operations, IT control, and automation software into one system. This helps companies manage their hardware and keep data safe. The system does more than store data. It checks power use, cooling systems, and equipment health. This helps teams find problems early and keep the data center running smoothly. Understanding server size and rack units Most data centers for companies have between 500 and 5,000 servers.According to the Pew Research Center, many data centers have about 2,000 to 5,000 servers. At the same time, smaller data centers usually have around 500 to 2,000 servers. To arrange these servers, data centers use a simple size system called a rack unit. One rack unit, or 1U, is 1.75 inches tall. So, when a server is called 1U, 2U, or 3U, the “U” shows how much vertical space the server uses in the rack. Space and cooling requirements Physical space is very important in a data center. The size of the building affects layout, airflow, and equipment placement. Because of this, data centers are grouped by size. Servers produce heat when they run. Without good cooling, performance goes down and equipment can be damaged. How many servers fit in one rack? A standard 42U rack can hold 42 servers if each server is 1U. So, this rack is used a lot in the industry. This also helps data center teams plan how much space they need. But, servers can be different sizes depending on how powerful they are. For example, high-performance servers need 2U or 4U because they have more parts. That’s why data center software tracks all these server sizes in the facility. Building reliable infrastructure for growth Reliable operations depend on careful planning of power supply, cooling capacity, and physical space through effective data center infrastructure management. Alongside this, strong connectivity between data centers and networks also supports business expansion. In response to these requirements, dark fiber provides secure, high-speed, and low-latency connections for modern data centers. ARNet provides dark fiber to give fast, safe, and low-latency connections for hyperscalers and major players in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. We own over 10,000 km of fiber and connect 60+ data centers across the region. Our network is fully built and operated in-house, with robust data center infrastructure management practices ensuring reliability and scalability for growing business needs. It includes long-distance, metro, and last-mile fiber to cover every connection requirement. This way, hyperscalers and major players enjoy stable, high-speed connections that help them perform better now and in the future. About the Author Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet