Data Centers: Technology giants that uphold AI

Nov 28, 2024

Data centers: Technology giants that uphold AI

Colombia, November 2024.- Artificial Intelligence (AI) is redefining multiple sectors, though its impact would be unfeasible without its support infrastructure. Data centers are at the core of this infrastructure, technology giants that store, process and distribute the huge amount of data feeding this tool. These data centers are the key foundation that supports AI’s daily operations, making everything possible, from industrial process automation to online service customization.

Based on a research by Aritzon, the data centers market in LatAm is expected to grow from US$5,51 billion registered in 2022 to US$8,81 billion by 2028. This demonstrates the importance of this sector, which in addition to being the driving force behind AI performance, is driven by the demand for cloud services, edge computing and cybersecurity, among other factors that companies pursue.

“AI requires a highly available and resilient infrastructure capable of handling intensive workloads, ensuring low latency and high security. Data centers are the cornerstone of this ecosystem,” said Pablo García, regional data center manager at Cirion Technologies, highlighting the crucial role of this infrastructure in the Artificial Intelligence Era.

Not just data storage

Data centers’ role goes way beyond, as they are responsible for processing complex algorithms and maintaining data integrity and security. AI would not be able to analyze large information volumes at the required speed without them. This is why data storage and processing infrastructures are constantly evolving, adapting to the growing market demands.

On the other hand, sustainability is one of the most important challenges for data centers. The enormous amount of energy they consume poses environmental challenges, and technology companies are taking steps to reduce their ecological impact. According to an International Energy Agency (IEA) report, energy efficiency improvements have helped control energy demand growth from data centers and data transmission networks, which currently demand around 1.0% to 1.5% of global electricity use.

The use of renewable energy sources and more efficient cooling systems are some of the solutions that are being implemented. In addition, AI is helping to streamline the operation of data centers themselves, improving energy efficiency through real-time monitoring and process automation. Accordingly, Gartner predicts that 50% of data center operators will adopt this technology, bots and machine learning to improve energy and operational efficiency by 2025.

The volume of data managed by Artificial Intelligence is constantly increasing, and with it, the need for robust infrastructures. As this technology becomes integrated into more aspects of our daily lives, from homes to smart cities, the ability of data centers to manage this information is of the essence. Edge computing is gaining momentum as a trend, allowing data to be processed closer to its source, reducing latency and improving critical applications speed.

Data security is another fundamental aspect of the infrastructure’s underlying tool. Due to data centers increasing storage of sensitive information, they have become attractive targets for cyberattacks as well. Here, this technology plays a role in strengthening security by detecting unusual patterns and anticipating threats.

The future of Artificial Intelligence primarily depends on innovating its support infrastructure. The ability to scale operations, process information in record times, and do so in a sustainable and secure manner is what will enable the ongoing evolution of this tool. Therefore, advances in the efficiency, sustainability and security of data centers are essential for the continued development of this technology.

“At Cirion Technologies, our infrastructure in Colombia and Latin America is designed to support the highest standards of availability and efficiency, driving digital transformation in the region. With a network of 18 strategically located carrier-neutral data centers, we are prepared to face the challenges that AI brings and guarantee the operational continuity of our clients,” concluded García.

About Cirion

Cirion is a leading digital infrastructure and technology pan-regional provider, offering a comprehensive suite of colocation services, cloud infrastructure and terrestrial and subsea fiber networks. Cirion serves over 5,500 Latin American and multinational customers headquartered in Latin America, including enterprises, government Agencies, cloud Service Providers, wireline and wireless carriers, ISPs and other leading businesses. Cirion owns and operates a portfolio of owned networks and data centers, with extensive coverage throughout the Latin American region. Learn more about Cirion at www.ciriontechnologies.com

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From Public Cloud to Data Centers What App. Repatriation means

Nov 14, 2024

From Public Cloud to Data Centers What App. Repatriation means

According to Uptime Institute Studies[1], Public Cloud repatriation to local data centers improves cost control, security and efficiency. This strategic move tackles the need to optimize resources and improve financial predictability in the use of technology.

An increasing number of Latin American companies is conducting a process called “Cloud Repatriation.” This means that after having migrated their applications and data to the Public Cloud, companies are in the process of moving some or all of them to local data centers rather than relying exclusively on the public cloud.

“Cost control is one of the main reasons behind this trend. A study by the Uptime Institute found that 42% of organizations surveyed did so because public cloud costs were higher than expected. Thus, repatriated applications manage to optimize operational expenses by avoiding unexpected costs associated with some services, such as auto-scaling or data transfer amongst regions or outside the public cloud, which can increase due to configuration omissions, or due to the complexity of estimating them by a 100% before migrating to the public cloud,” says Hugo Acha, Data Center Regional Product Manager at Cirion Technologies.

In addition to cost savings, cloud repatriation offers greater security and regulatory compliance, especially for highly regulated sectors such as the public, financial and healthcare sectors. By moving their data and apps. to local data centers or private clouds, businesses can ensure their information complies with local regulations and is better protected.

On the other hand, Juan José Calderón, Data Center Business Manager at Cirion, pointed out that “as one of the main digital infrastructure and technology providers in the region, Cirion offers services such as Bare Metal Cloud, which allows companies to use on-demand physical servers, providing increased transparency and cost predictability. “We have implemented computing nodes in five Latin American regions, and we will continue to grow to meet the increasing demand for flexible and secure solutions.”

This approach not only improves financial control, but it also simplifies daily operations. “Repatriation is not a setback, but rather an optimization of resources. Companies opting for this option are looking for the best way to balance costs and operational efficiency,” he explained.

Summing up, cloud repatriation is a smart strategy to optimize use of resources, improve safety, and reduce costs. With the right mix of public and private cloud services and data centers, companies can leverage the best of both worlds, adjusting to their specific needs and ensuring their operations are efficient and sustainable. To learn more about Cirion Peru’s specialized services, access www.ciriontechnologies.com

1] High costs drive cloud repatriation, but impact is overstated – Uptime Institute Blog

About Cirion

Cirion is a leading digital infrastructure and technology pan regional provider, offering a comprehensive suite of colocation services, cloud infrastructure and terrestrial and subsea fiber networks. Cirion serves over 5500 Latin American and multinational customers headquartered in Latin America, including enterprises, government agencies, cloud Service Providers, carriers, ISPs and other leading businesses. Cirion owns and operates a facilities-based network and data center portfolio, with extensive coverage spanning across the Latin America region. Learn more about Cirion at https://www.ciriontechnologies.com/

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Kenny Castillo
CorPro
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kcastilo@corpro.pe

The Business Ecosystem within Cirion’s New Data Center

Nov 11, 2024

The Business Ecosystem within Cirion’s New Data Center

The LIM2 Data Center will connect the country’s main companies with large connectivity providers, public clouds and content distributors.

Lima, November 6, 2024. Cirion Technologies, a leading digital infrastructure and technology provider in Latin America, promises to bring Peruvian and Multinational companies closer to hyperscale cloud service providers, connectivity companies and content distributors through their business ecosystem, hosted in the second Data Center the company is building in Lurín.

“This Data Center – known as LIM2 – is a milestone for Peru, not only because of its innovative design, but also because of the cutting-edge technologies implemented thereof. LIM2 was designed to integrate innovative solutions from its inception, providing an infrastructure not available in the Peruvian market until now”, says Juan José Calderón, Data Center Business Manager at Cirion.

Cirion’s new Tier III data center will have 6 modules and ~1,440 racks. Built on a 23,000 square meter lot in Lurín, and with 20 megawatts guaranteed power. Cirion recently announced investments above US$300 million in its network infrastructure and data centers in Latin America, being Peru and Chile the first beneficiaries of this initiative, followed by Brazil with a new ~80MW data center in the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Some advantages of Cirion LIM2 new data center:

Interconnected Ecosystem

One of the great advantages of the new Data Center located in Lurín is its integration within a broad Data Center Ecosystem. “It is not an isolated facility, but part of Cirion’s network of more than 18 carrier-neutral Data Centers in Latin America,” explained Calderón. This brings new business opportunities for LIM2-hosted companies.

Cirion’s current data center in Surco (LIM1) hosts the technological platforms of more than 400 leading domestic and international enterprises. Within this portfolio, Cirion has the endorsement of the main Peruvian companies across all sectors of the economy, as well as telcos and connectivity providers.

Additionally, the new Data Center incorporates cutting-edge technology that will enable serving companies with a global presence such as hyperscalers, cloud service facilitators and content generators. Therefore, those companies opting for LIM2 will have access to this entire business ecosystem.

Technological Innovation

Cirion’s brand new Data Center was conceived with cutting-edge technologies, not available in the Peruvian market until now. “We are ready to tackle the market’s current and future demands,” said Calderón.

LIM2 is a Tier III N+2 Catcher data center; i.e., it has greater redundancy as it provides two additional components to cover any failure and an extra security layer is delivered, ensuring continuous and stable operation. This is the infrastructure type Hyperscalers are after.

Automation, AI, and management systems are also being used to expedite responses to unexpected events.

Carrier-neutral Connectivity

LIM2 stands out for being a carrier-neutral Data Center, prepared to receive all local and international telcos and/or providers of these services. This feature is essential in Peru, since it’s available only in a few data centers.

“It gives customers greater potential for connectivity, reaching a much broader audience. In addition, it significantly increases Data Center redundancy and availability” added Calderón.

Module-specific and customized dashboard

LIM2 is designed to allow for sustained and adaptable growth, with a module-specific design that allows customization to specific customer needs, ensuring installation flexibility.

Energy sustainability and efficiency

Caring for the environment has become increasingly relevant in recent years and data center are top energy consumers to cool their infrastructures. Committed to sustainability, LIM2 uses technologies aiming at energy efficiency levels comparable to the most modern Data Centers in the world, with a market-leading PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness).

Its Box-in-a-box design scheme – which involves creating an enclosure within another – provides the Data Center with two isolation layers from the outside. This form of construction enables more efficient power consumption, in addition to providing greater security.

LIM2 has already started the process to achieve the most rigorous international certifications in the data center sector. “We are committed to maintaining the highest industry standards, extending our existing certifications in other data centers to this new facility,” concluded Calderón.

LIM2 is scheduled to open in Q1 2025. This Data Center is positioned as a strategic point for innovation and business growth in Peru and Latin America, consolidating Cirion Technologies as a fundamental pillar in the region’s digital infrastructure.

About Cirion

Cirion is a leading digital infrastructure and technology provider, offering a comprehensive suite of fiber network, connectivity, colocation, cloud infrastructure, and communication and collaboration solutions with the purpose of furthering Latin America´s progress through technology. Cirion serves more than 5,500 Latin American and multinational clients, including enterprises, government agencies, cloud service providers, operators, ISPs, and other leading companies. Cirion owns and operates a portfolio of its own networks and data centers, with extensive coverage throughout the Latin American region. Learn more about Cirion at www.ciriontechnologies.com

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AI Impact in Cybersecurity – Automation and Real-time Detection

Nov 7, 2024

AI Impact in Cybersecurity – Automation and Real-time Detection

Experts emphasize how artificial intelligence (AI) is redefining cybersecurity, empowering defenses and attacks alike, therefore facing companies with new legal and operational challenges.

In an increasingly digitalized world, cybersecurity is facing a new challenge: Artificial Intelligence. This technology, which promises to transform various industries, is not only used to strengthen cyber defenses, but to hone attacks as well. During the recent Cirion Forum Peru 2024, sector experts analyzed the risks and opportunities that AI presents for companies protection, highlighting the need for responsible and collaborative management to tackle this new reality.

Experts agree that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a game-changer in a context where cyberattacks are rapidly evolving g. Pablo Dubois, Regional Security Product Manager at Cirion Technologies, explains that AI is not only helping to automate protection, but becoming an essential tool to analyze large data volumes and detect vulnerabilities before attacks occur. “Security analysts are not able to address all challenges on their own. AI is the partner we need to confront threats in real time,” said Dubois. Due to this technology, attacks are being identified and neutralized more quickly, optimizing response times and reducing operation impact.

Accordingly, Dubois identifies 6 features where AI and cybersecurity are closely related:

More sophisticated phishing with AI: Phishing is one of the most concerning risks enhanced by AI, since it continues to be the main gateway for computer attacks. Fraudulent emails, which were once easy to detect due to grammatical errors, are now almost indistinguishable from real ones, thanks to the language perfection offered by AI. This makes it even more difficult to protect companies and calls for new defensive methods.
AI-associate legal risks: To Oscar Montezuma, CEO & Founder of Niubox Legal Digital, AI-related legal risks -from personal data inappropriate use to intellectual property generated by autonomous systems, AI poses questions not clearly addressed in the regulatory framework. Countries such as Italy have already banned some AI applications until they comply with their data protection laws.
AI, a new attack surface: In addition to the benefits in defense, AI also represents a new vulnerability front. Dubois explains that artificial intelligence should be seen as a new attack surface that requires ongoing control and monitoring. Attackers are also using AI to improve their techniques, forcing companies to stay one step ahead.
AI governance, a pending challenge: AI regulatory framework is constantly developing. Montezuma mentions that despite international standards such as ISO 42001 to audit AI systems, many companies have not implemented robust internal policies yet for the governance of this technology, thus leaving both companies, and their customers exposed to potential risks.
International regulatory collaboration: Artificial Intelligence regulations are gaining momentum globally, with Europe leading the way in creating strict regulations. However, Montezuma points out that overregulation could slow down innovation, especially in countries like Peru, where some laws are being enacted, which could bring unnecessary barriers for local startups and technology companies.

On the other hand, the use of AI has a positive impact for the training of new professionals in cybersecurity. Because of the growing demand for experts, AI is not only empowering current analysts, but it is also accelerating new generations learning. “AI is helping to close the digital security talent divide, allowing new professionals to keep up with the pace more quickly,” highlighted Dubois.

Cirion has also implemented AI solutions to optimize its clients’ technological infrastructure. “Today, AI is able to analyze and propose security settings automatically, speeding up response time upon potential threats,” added Dubois. This automation capability helps reduce downtime and ensures greater operational security.

Artificial intelligence presents both challenges and opportunities in the cybersecurity field. The adoption of an initiative-taking and collaborative approach by companies is of the essence in order to protect themselves from emerging risks, while encouraging a regulatory balanced framework between innovation and protection. Only then will they be able to successfully navigate this new digital landscape.

About Cirion

Cirion is a leading digital infrastructure and technology pan regional provider, offering a comprehensive suite of colocation services, cloud infrastructure and terrestrial and subsea fiber networks. Cirion serves over 5500 Latin American and multinational customers headquartered in Latin America, including enterprises, government Agencies, cloud Service Providers, wireline and wireless carriers, ISPs and other leading businesses. Cirion owns and operates a facilities-based network and data center portfolio, with extensive coverage spanning across the Latin America region. Lear more about Cirion at www.ciriontechnologies.com

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Kenny Castillo
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kcastillo@corpro.pe

Cirion Drives the Third Wave of Digital Transformation with Unified Communications as a Service

Oct 22, 2024

Cirion Drives the Third Wave of Digital Transformation with Unified Communications as a Service

Evolving towards a collaborative and efficient work environment is one of this solution’s objectives, providing users with ubiquitous, consistent, and natural work experience, fully aligned with people’s new forms of communication.

Santiago, October 22, 2024.- Cirion Technologies, the leading technological support company for businesses in Latin America is at the forefront of digital transformation at the work environment, driving the adoption of Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS), by managing Microsoft Teams Hub for desktop apps.

“In an environment where adjusting to new working methods is of the essence, at Cirion we show corporations how migration towards a collaborative space is not just imminent, but key for business success,” explains Fernando Riedel, Voice and Collaboration Specialist at Cirion Technologies.

Just as PBX in the 90s were required to update from analog to digital technologies, and later to IP and SIP telephony, the market is currently in the third migration wave towards Unified Communications. This shift is driven by integrating communications and collaboration, a critical aspect of digital transformation that organizations need to embrace.

According to market studies, most companies are expected to soon implement telephony systems on their PCs, tablets and mobile phones, reducing dependence on physical phones, except in public spaces and conference rooms. The consolidation of tools like Microsoft Teams, already present on most desktops through Office 365, represents a significant change in the way companies communicate, since everything will be part of a broader Collaborative space that will integrate text messaging and video as the communication standard.

However, and even though Microsoft 365 environment is a public cloud-native operation, transitioning to Unified Communications can pose a great challenge for many corporations, since the need of additional domestic public telephony services in various Latin American countries, including Chile, calls for the integration of supplementary technologies, professional services and operational management of these platforms over time. It is now that a partner’s technological support becomes fundamental to guiding businesses throughout this process.

“At Cirion we embraced Microsoft Teams from scratch, becoming pioneers for its implementation, leveraging its capabilities to improve daily collaboration,” added Riedel. “Our mission is to facilitate this transition towards a modern and collaborative workspace, training employees and offering IT and HR with comprehensive support for their adoption,” continued the executive.

Cirion Services with Microsoft Teams

Cirion delivers Microsoft Teams management by integrating infrastructure and public telephony services in a UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service) hybrid model, thus providing customers with the management of:

Cloud PBX Platform: Co-governed by Cirion with IT, assuring effective control and continuous communications platform monitoring.

Integration of PSTN Services: Delivery of phone calls, numbering and consumption, both domestic and international, enabling smooth and accessible connectivity.

Devices as a Service: It facilitates the acquisition and management of room devices and users, ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary tools and within the monthly subscription scheme.

Corporate Features Access It includes voicemail, messaging, chat, presence, and video conferencing, all within a Microsoft Teams environment.

Monitoring and Reports: Performance monitoring and usage reporting services, which allow companies to optimize resources and costs throughout the service lifecycle.

End-to-end governance: Monitoring services extended to Microsoft 365 context, integrating network assets telemetry to facilitate real-time management.

Customized User Experience: ubiquitous, consistent and natural work experience, aligned with new forms of users’ communication.

With more than 20 regionwide certifications, and a strong collaboration with Microsoft Certified Partners, Cirion positions itself as a key provider in Microsoft Teams implementation as well as UC services management. “Our solution is not just about technology, but about offering a holistic experience to maximize productivity and reduce costs,” explains Fernando Riedel. “We have a broad solution spectrum customized to our customers’ needs, where each implementation is supported by a team of experts,” concludes the executive.

About Cirion

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Paulette Cartes
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Hugo Pérez
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