Colocation hosting allows small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) to rent data center space, power, cooling, and physical security for their critical IT infrastructure instead of building and managing their own facility. This saves SMBs significantly on capital and operating expenses so they can focus budgets on core business operations and growth.
Selecting the right colocation provider is crucial to ensure high availability, business continuity, and data security for SMBs as their infrastructure scales. The top colocation hosting providers catering to SMBs stand out for their global data center footprint, high-density power capabilities, carrier diversity, compliance standards, and customer support.
Here are 10 of the leading colocation server hosting providers that deliver scalable and resilient infrastructure solutions to SMBs across industries:
1. Equinix
With over 200 data centers across 26 countries, Equinix provides consistent colocation infrastructure worldwide. Its global platform, IBX, enables secure interconnections inside data centers to leading networks, cloud providers, and partners.
Key Highlights:
- 99.9999% uptime SLA
- Flexible cabinet/cage options
- Dense ecosystem for hybrid IT
- Global availability zones
2. Digital Realty
Digital Realty supports hybrid IT deployments for SMBs through its Service Exchange platform offered across 300+ data centers globally. Colocation options match data gravity needs with proximity to interconnected ecosystems locally.
Key Highlights:
- Turnkey cages/cabinets
- N+1 power redundancy
- Hybrid cloud on-ramps
- Global footprint with local presence
3. Flexential
Flexential focuses on adaptable and scalable solutions for SMB colocation needs. It provides high-density power, hybrid IT connectivity, and compliance-specific infrastructure.
Key Highlights:
- Customizable data halls/suites
- 2N power redundancy
- Hybrid cloud deplyments
- High-density power (up to 30kW per cabinet)
4. TierPoint
TierPoint designs and manages agile colocation spaces powered by redundant critical infrastructure. It offers state-of-the-art facilities, cloud on-ramps, and security protocols through 40+ national data centers.
Key Highlights:
- Hybrid IT capabilities
- Robust cooling efficiency
- National data center footprint
- Remote hands engineering services
5. Cyxtera
Cyxtera provides secure and reliable colocation paired with monitoring, management, and support from its skilled operations team. Customizable services limit infrastructure risks for SMBs as they scale.
Key Highlights:
- In-house operations expertise
- Customizable data center footprints
- Proactive infrastructure monitoring
- Global data center availability
6. Interxion
Interxion allows SMBs to securely interconnect across platforms in industry communities of interest. With an uptime guarantee of 99.999%, Interxion delivers consistent performance locally and globally.
Key Highlights:
- Industry-focused communities
- Cross-connect capabilities
- Cloud gateway availability
- Local support teams
7. Data Foundry
Data Foundry owns and operates carrier-neutral data centers focused on customizable colocation services for SMBs. Its facilities offer flexibility, redundancy, and scale within budget.
Key Highlights:
- Custom data suites/cages
- Redundant power and cooling
- Managed services options
- Central US locations
Navisite manages adaptable and secure colocation environments supported by its team of experts globally. Integrated managed services allow SMBs to maintain uptime and operational efficiency.
Key Highlights:
- Turnkey colocation options
- Managed services bundles
- Remote infrastructure monitoring
- Worldwide data center presence
9. Cologix
Cologix provides flexible data center deployment utilizing experienced engineers who support server rack delivery, equipment staging, etc. Robust facilities promote growth while limiting SMB infrastructure costs.
Key Highlights:
- Scalable cabinet/cage footprints
- Migration/capacity planning help
- Network neutral connectivity
- Custom remote hands services
10. Aligned Energy
Aligned Energy focuses exclusively on adaptable and efficient data center design powered by renewable energy. Its cooled data halls scale efficiently through customer buildouts within the facility.
Key Highlights:
- High-density powered shell space
- Environmentally sustainable
- Proprietary cooling distribution
- On-site water treatment
Key Considerations for SMBs
While cost is often the driving factor, SMBs selecting colocation hosting must also assess:
ServiceData center proximity to end users ensures performance
Hybrid cloud support for long-term IT strategy
Facility expansion options to support internal growth
Redundant infrastructure for higher availability during outages
Security protocols meet cyber protection and compliance needs
Conclusion
The right colocation provider allows SMBs to reduce capital overhead and scale within flexible global platforms. As infrastructure needs grow and technology strategies shift into hybrid models, selecting data center partners with proven expertise in adaptable solutions for core operations is key. The providers profiled here help SMBs balance functionality with cost-efficiency.
