Frequently Asked Questions
What is colocation?
Colocation is a service through which Computing Services supplies rack space, network connectivity, and hardware support for departmental servers.
What is the Cyert Hall computer room facility like?
The Cyert Hall computer room is home to the 300+ servers that deliver email, networking and file services to the campus. This facility offers:
- Environmentally controlled computer facility
- 24x7 staffing
- Limited access
- Conditioned power
- Fire Protection
- 15 minute UPS battery backup
- An emergency generator that provides extended power
What services are available?
Standard services include 10/100 Base-T network connection to the campus backbone and hardware support. Other services may be available, please contact us for details.
Can any department colocate?
Yes, any CMU department can colocate its computer equipment in Cyert Hall under this program.
What are the responsibilieis of the department when they want to colocate?
The departments using the colocation service should provide a single point of contact for server related issues. The department will be responsible for system administration, software management, system monitoring and end-user support.
How can departments access server consoles?
In emergencies or critical situations, departmental personnel can directly access their server consoles in the Cyert Hall computer room. For remote access to Windows consoles, we suggest remote access software, such as VNC, Symantec’s PC Anywhere or Expertcity’s GoToMyPC.
What are the limits on network bandwidth?
Network usage for colocation customers is subject to general university computing policies, outlined in Network Bandwidth Usage Guidelines.
Can department personnel do their own hardware support?
No. In order to safeguard personnel and equipment, all hardware changes – installations, upgrades, repairs, relocations and removals – will be performed by Computing Services technicians at prevailing hourly rates. Alternatively, access can be given to the department’s commercial hardware service provider.
Are other network connections available?
Secure connections to private networks are provided by VLANs. Internet 2 (Abilene) and gigabit connections are also available.
How are systems registered on the network?
Using the NetReg service, colocated machines can be preregistered in the A100 Non Computing Services subnet.
Are data backup services available?
A variety of data backup programs is available, depending on OS type, amount of data, backup frequency, tape rotation, offsite storage, etc. To discuss your backup needs, please contact Dave Stevens, x8-4808.
Is colocation available for commercial equipment?
No, colocation is limited to CMU related nonprofit groups.
What does colocation cost?
A complete list of terms and a menu of prices are available.
