Data Center Fundamentals (DCF®)

Program Overview

Demystify the complex world of data centers. Gain a structured overview of the data center environments, the role of a data center and key operational aspects.

Data centers play such significant roles in our business and personal lives, yet not many people really know what they are. Often referred to as “the cloud” where our data is stored and processed, they are much more than this; they power the internet giving us the ability to pay bills online, access our emails, obtain money from ATM machines, watch movies, communicate around the world and to carry on what is now considered a normal, fiercely technological lifestyle.

This program has been designed to help demystify the complex world of data centers. It provides an overview of what data centers are, what they do and why we need them. Key aspects relating to basic design and design philosophies are also examined and the essential considerations of data center management such as operational processes, energy management and facility management are explored along with their relationships to overall business strategy. The data center sector as a whole is also explained including the value of the sector today, the significant growth it has experienced to date and how this will continue in the future.

What is a Data Center?

  • Define a data center
  • Identify the main data center types
  • Identify the business service options
  • Emerging delivery and future demands

The Role and Objectives of a Data Center

  • Driving factors for a data center
  • Data center standards
  • Data center availability models and considerations
  • Location and building considerations

Design Overview

  • Criticality and availability considerations
  • The four key constraints (4Cs) – power, cooling, IT infrastructure and space

Managing the Data Center

  • Regulations, best practices and operational processes
  • Move, adds and change processes
  • Efficient energy management
  • Decommissioning processes
  • IT and physical security

The Data Center Industry and Market

  • The size of the market
  • Market drivers and trends
  • Powering the internet

8 Hours Distance Learning or 1 Day Instructor-led.

This program has been designed for individuals who are either new to the data center sector (technicians with limited experience or exposure to data center facilities) or for those who sell products and services to the data center sector. If you would like to discuss your experience or suitability for this program, please contact us.

There are no specific pre-requisites for this program.

Instructor-led: Learners are required to have:

  • A webcam and microphone enabled laptop with unrestricted wireless internet connectivity and a pre-installed web browser
  • A suitable application for opening and reading PDFs. Typically, your device's in-built PDF reader is sufficient

Distance Learning: As a distance learner you have access to an experienced and dedicated online support team during your program. Learners are required to have:

  • A laptop or suitable device with unrestricted wireless internet connectivity and a pre-installed web browser
  • A suitable application for opening and reading PDFs. Typically, your device's in-built PDF reader is sufficient

To provide an overview of the data center sector, the functional requirements of the data center facilities, the key aspects of data center working infrastructure and their management, and the facility's relationship to the delivery business strategy.

Learners will gain a comprehensive overview of the data center sector, the functional requirements of the data center facilities, the key aspects of data center infrastructure and management and the facility’s relationship to business strategy. As well as a CNet Certificate, you will also gain use of the official Data Center Fundamentals digital badge.

  • Certified Data Center Technician Professional (CDCTP®) – beneficial to technical personnel who are contribute to the day-to-day smooth operation of mission critical facilities
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