Maintaining the pace with the skyrocketing demand for IT services is a common challenge for all mission-critical facilities, from edge data centers to hyperscale campuses.



While their server infrastructure must provide the necessary compute power to support high-capacity applications, their fiber infrastructure must also have the speed, bandwidth, and optical performance to cater to the increasing internal and external data traffic volumes.

International Data Corporation (IDC) has projected that by 2025, "41.6 billion connected devices will generate 79.4 zettabytes of data." With wide adoption of emerging technologies like 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), advanced data analytics, and virtual/augmented reality, there is an even greater need for high-performing, highly resilient, and adaptable infrastructure for mission-critical facility managers.

Unfortunately, the current major challenge in critical facilities is the fiber cabling infrastructure. Delivering on insatiable speed and bandwidth requirements often becomes impossible due to the predefined theoretical limit and optical power budget of existing fiber installations. Cassette-based solutions, which are traditionally used to upgrade fiber connectivity, present several obstacles such as selecting the correct interface and cable type, mismatched connectors, reversed polarity issues, lack of awareness of new standards, optical loss from splicing, significant footprint within each rack unit (RU), and inability to scale for higher density deployments.

Instead of cassette-based solutions, data center operators require a more flexible solution to overcome the challenges of density vs. performance in critical facilities. Legrand's Alignment Independent Multifiber (AIM) cabling system is an example of a direct connections-based system that replaces pre-terminated cassette-based solutions. The AIM cabling solution allows 8-fiber trunk connectors to be mated directly with an array of twin-fiber Mini Duplex Connector (MDC) patch cords via a conversion adapter panel. This enables increased density, faster cable installation, and significant time and cost savings.

The advantages of a system like the AIM cabling solution include improved optical performance, a smarter cabling design, simplified connectivity, faster changes, easier testing, reduced costs, Ultra-High Density (UHD) support, and faster deployment from storage. Direct connections-based fiber solution is simple, flexible, and reliable, ideal for quick architectural changes, smaller, simpler, more intuitive, and easier to use.

In the context of 2025, mission-critical facilities like data centers, health care facilities, military installations, and power plants will have evolving infrastructure needs to ensure their optimal operation. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Energy Efficiency: Energy consumption in mission-critical facilities will remain a significant concern in 2025. Solutions such as advanced cooling systems, efficient power supply units, and sophisticated building management systems will become more crucial. Adoption of renewable energy and advanced battery storage may increase as well.

Robust Cybersecurity: As reliance on digital infrastructure increases, so does the risk of cyber threats. Mission-critical facilities will need robust cybersecurity measures to protect against threats. This includes firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, security incident management, and regular vulnerability assessments.

Advanced AI systems: AI will be a significant contributor to the efficient management of these facilities. AI can help in predictive maintenance, energy optimization, real-time anomaly detection, and high-availability of resources.

Edge Computing: With the exponential rise of IoT devices and the need for real-time processing, edge computing infrastructure will become a necessity. This requires mission-critical facilities to be geographically distributed, demanding robust, small-scale data centers closer to end-users.

Interoperability and System Integration: In 2025, mission-critical facilities will include a wide range of interconnected hardware and software. Related infrastructure will need to seamlessly integrate these different systems, offering interoperability without compromising security or performance.

Quality Power Supply: All parts of the mission-critical facility must be capable of maintaining continuity of operation, often under adverse conditions. The power supply will need to be dependable, and backup power systems based on green technologies might be the norm, replacing traditional diesel generators.

Scalability: Given the rapidly changing technology landscape, mission-critical facilities will need infrastructure that can be scaled up or down rapidly. Scalability will also be important to meet changing demand and prevent overinvestment in infrastructure.

Physical Security: Despite the digital nature of many threats, physical security remains paramount for these facilities. This includes protection from natural disasters, unauthorized access, and other physical threats. Smart surveillance systems, biometric access controls, and disaster-resistant construction are a few elements that will be considered.

Disaster Recovery: The creation of robust disaster recovery plans that allow for the quick reestablishment of services and operations will be imperative. This includes redundancy in systems and data backup.

Workforce: Modern, tech-savvy staff trained in operating and maintaining state-of-the-art systems, software, and hardware will be needed. As infrastructure becomes more sophisticated, demand for professionals proficient in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data science will rise.

Sustainability: With global efforts increasing to combat climate change, mission-critical facilities will be expected to fulfill their roles within strict environmental parameters. This includes more efficient use of resources, minimising waste, considering the lifecycle of their components, and adhering to green building principles.

Diving even deeper into the infrastructure needs for mission-critical facilities:

Connectivity and 5G: The rise of 5G and possibly 6G will emphasize the need for superior connectivity, with lower latency, higher speeds and greater capacity. This will necessitate updates to network infrastructure, including new antenna systems, edge computing capabilities and advanced network management tools.

Advanced HVAC Systems: These facilities often house servers and other electronic equipment that generate significant amounts of heat. High-tech, energy-efficient HVAC systems will be critical in keeping these machines at optimal operating temperatures without wasting energy.

Water Management: Industrial and IT processes often require substantial water for cooling and other systems. In the face of a changing climate, water conservation and recycling systems will be a crucial component of sustainable infrastructure.

Modular and Prefabricated Construction: Modular and pre-engineered construction methods will allow mission-critical facilities to be deployed rapidly. They can be energy-efficient, cost-effective, and could offer a faster, more flexible way of meeting the need for infrastructure.

Digital Twin Technology: The use of digital twins, exact virtual replicas of assets or systems used to run simulations before actual devices are built and deployed, is expected to expand. They enable advanced predictive maintenance, better planning, efficient use of resources and improved damage and risk mitigation.

Hardware Resilience: As computing capabilities continue increasing, so too does the need for resources. High-performance computing (HPC) entails the use of robust, durable components that can operate continuously under significant workload.

Quantum Computing: If progress continues toward practical quantum computing, these resources will need to be accommodated within mission-critical facilities. Quantum computers require specialized supportive environments, including complex cooling systems— they operate at temperatures near absolute zero— and careful vibration control.

Automation: Automated systems for performing repetitive, mundane tasks will be implemented more comprehensively across these facilities, facilitating resource optimization, heightening security, enhancing efficiency and reducing human error.

Microgrids and Energy Storage: To ensure energy supply stability and to take advantage of renewable energy sources, many facilities could utilize local microgrids and advanced energy storage technologies. These systems also enhance sustainability.

Regulatory Compliance: As regulation concerning data security, environmental impact, and other aspects grows stricter, infrastructure will need to comply with a complex web of regional and international laws and standards. Mechanisms for regular audit and compliance verification will be vital.


Additional points to consider:

Smart Building Technology: This includes features like predictive and preventive maintenance technologies, connected IoT devices, automated environmental controls, and energy management systems. Smart building technologies will become integral to the management of mission-critical facilities, optimizing operations, security, and comfort.

Augmented/Virtual Reality: AR and VR technologies may play a significant role, particularly in monitoring systems, maintenance, and workforce training. For example, they can help staff visualize complex systems or situations, offer real-time guidance, or simulate emergencies.

Extended Detection and Response (XDR): XDR platforms consolidate multiple security products into one solution and can detect threats across various channels. With the growing prevalence of sophisticated cyber attacks, this holistic approach to security can significantly enhance the detection of and response to threats.

Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM creates digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of facilities. Over time, such models can be used to make informed decisions about infrastructure and maintenance, helping to extend the life of critical systems and ensure that they continue to meet required specifications.

Resilience and Redundancy: They need to be applied not only in data systems but also in energy sources, cooling systems, and network connections. Multilayered redundancy levels can reduce the chance of systems being overwhelmed in the event of an emergency.

Dark Fiber: With increasing data consumption and privacy concerns, mission-critical facilities may consider having their private fiber-optic communication lines, often referred to as dark fiber. This helps the organization to maintain a super-fast, dedicated network pathway for data transfer to ensure maximum uptime and data security.

Liquid Cooling: As servers grow more powerful and generate more heat, liquid cooling systems could increase in prevalence over traditional air cooling. They can cool components more effectively, potentially reducing energy use and increasing data center density.

Data Analytics and Forecasting: The ability to predict potential issues before they arise will become more valuable as these facilities grow more complex. Predictive analytics and machine learning models can process enormous amounts of data from various sources, helping teams to forecast energy usage, service disruptions, and maintenance needs.

Next-gen Fire Suppression Systems: Advanced fire protection solutions, like gas-based and water mist systems, could replace traditional sprinkler systems in many mission-critical facilities. These new systems can extinguish fires without damaging sensitive electronic equipment.