Finding Security In A Cave

Looking for a safe place to put your primary or backup data center or co-location services? How about 85 feet underground? Underground Secure Data Center Operations is offering space in a 100-year-old former gypsum mine in Grand Rapids, Mich. The facility, opened in July, consists of 750,000 square feet of naturally cooled (to 50 degrees Fahrenheit) corridors and sub-corridors in which secure cages and computer racks have been installed.

About two dozen companies, including several dot-coms and a Web-hosting company, have leased space in the cave, says Underground partner Bob Savage. The cost is about $100 per month per rack unit. The facility offers secure power and bandwidth services--including multiple high-speed Internet DS-3 connections through an OC-12 Sonet ring linked to the outside by redundant fiber cables. Most clients manage their systems remotely, but Underground Secure Data Center Operations provides round-the-clock staffing.