FEATURE : DATA CENTRES
Top data centre trends in 2025 from Western Digital
AI models will drive storage growth
It is no secret that data generation and consumption are skyrocketing while organisations face pressure to quickly derive value from this data . New architectures such as NVMe-oF that enable GPU direct architectures , and advancements in high-capacity HDDs and QLC SSDs will continue to drive storage optimisation .
Focus on sustainable data storage
This includes investing in energy efficient storage technologies such as newer HDDs and SSDs , which can consume less power per TB of data stored and help reduce energy and cooling costs . Or data management practices like de-duplication and compression , or data lifecycle management practices . compute-optimised storage focuses on speed and low latency for performance-critical , time-sensitive applications . Many organisations require both capabilities .
Edge and cloud storage
NAND flash storage needs are ever increasing with advancements in feature-rich in-vehicle infotainment , advanced driver-assistance systems , and autonomous driving . While some data must remain in the vehicle for real-time decision making , much of the learning and improvements takes place in the cloud . Sensory data and new scenarios are uploaded to the cloud where it is analysed and new , smarter AI algorithms are updated over the air .
TCO and HDDs
Hybrid storage
Today ’ s evolving storage needs are transforming the way enterprise customers approach data management , especially in the context of the AI Data Cycle . High-capacity storage solutions emphasize cost-effective , large-scale data retention , while
No matter how you slice it , HDDs are going to be around for a long time . The amount of data generated continues to grow exponentially . HDD technology advancements have led to larger storage capacities than ever before . When deploying storage solutions at scale , one of the most important considerations is total cost of ownership . HDDs offer the lowest possible overall TCO .
Does investment in data centres risk diverting critical resources from local communities or could the industry use this as a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the economic and sustainable development of the continent ? As operators build power and fibre optic infrastructure for their data centres , can they provide Africa ’ s people with better access to electricity by transferring excess power to the national grid .
Can the benefits of digital infrastructure extend beyond the technology-savvy and reach those who currently lack basic access to technology , helping to educate this young population to become digitally skilled and able to drive economic and social reform . These questions underscore the need for a holistic approach to data centre growth that truly benefits Africa as a whole . p
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