Big ideas for 2025: The great data center upgrade
"The current data center infrastructure is only partly prepared for AI-driven workloads."
In this installment of our Big Ideas For 2025 series, Rami Jebara, Co-Founder and CTO of the cloud-based Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) platform provider Hyperview, set out his vision of the transformation required over the next 12 months:
A year of AI acceleration
"AI and machine learning workloads will be the primary drivers of change in data center design throughout 2025. These technologies require immense computational power, resulting in increased energy use and greater cooling demands."
"Edge computing will further shape the landscape, pushing the development of smaller, decentralized data centers near urban hubs. These facilities will reduce latency and enhance data processing speeds, meeting the demands of real-time applications."
Are data centers ready to satisfy growing AI demand?
"The current data center infrastructure is only partly prepared for AI-driven workloads. Many facilities were designed for traditional computing tasks and lack the infrastructure to handle the high power and cooling requirements of AI hardware, such as GPUs, which generate more heat than standard CPUs.
While some newer data centres are adopting advanced techniques like liquid cooling, many older facilities still rely on inefficient air-cooling systems. The increased power demands of AI could also strain legacy electrical systems not built for such loads. Significant investments in upgrades will be needed to bridge this gap."
A green focus for 2025: Sustainability in the age of ESG
"Sustainability is also critical. Future data centres must incorporate innovative cooling solutions, renewable energy sources, and smart energy management systems to minimise their carbon footprint.
"Efficiency and environmental responsibility will define future designs, enabling facilities to support power-intensive technologies like AI while staying eco-friendly."
Modular data center innovation
"Modular design will be key to future-proofing data centres. Modular setups offer flexibility and scalability, enabling operators to adjust resources as demand evolves. They are particularly suited to supporting high-density computing, advanced cooling systems, and sustainable power solutions.
"Additionally, modular designs facilitate edge computing by enabling smaller, localised units that reduce latency. With streamlined maintenance, lower costs, and resource optimisation, modular data centres will ensure adaptability to technological advancements and market demands."
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