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Data centre

UK //ˈdeɪtə ˌsɛn.tər// US //ˈdeɪtə ˌsɛn.tɚ// Pronunciation

Definition

A facility that houses computer systems and associated components.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A place where a lot of computer servers are stored.

Examples

• The company expanded its operations by building a new data centre.
• Data centres require significant power and cooling systems to function efficiently.
• Many businesses rely on off-site data centres for backup and disaster recovery.
• The data centre was upgraded to handle more servers and higher traffic.

Usage notes

Used mostly in technical contexts. Not appropriate in casual conversations. Can refer to facilities for cloud storage.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'centre' full of 'data' like a library for computers.

Collocations

• cloud data centre
• data centre operations
• data centre facility

Synonyms

• server farm
• data facility
• computer centre

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'data storage' which refers to storage solutions rather than physical locations.
• Using 'data center' instead of 'data centre' in British English contexts.
• Misunderstanding the term as including office space instead of just server facilities.