Networking and cloud computing specialist NextDC has officially opened the company’s new M1 data centre, the largest of its kind currently servicing the city.

 

Located five kilometres southwest of the Melbourne CBD, the M1 facility will provide corporate, government, technology and cloud services providers the opportunity to collate their IT and telecommunications infrastructure in the company’s vendor and carrier neutral facility.

 

Newly appointed CEO of NextDC, Crai Scroggie, said a centre the size and complexity of M1 was a significantly achievement for the company and a critical step towards growing cloud computing services.

 

“We are committed to enabling the cloud computing revolution in Australia and the M1 facility is immediately attractive to organisations that deliver or consume cloud computing services,” Mr Scorggie said.

 

M1 is a 17,500m2 facility delivering over 12 MW ICT load, designed with ASIO T4 security standards in mind to provide the most secure environment able to host the most critical information.

 

The facility boasts many additional security measures including:

  • 6 data halls designed as separate concrete bunkers within a large concrete bunker to provide maximum protection
  • bulletproof security access throughout the entire lobby security area, and
  • the latest dual and triple factor encrypted challenge and authentication system

 

“NEXTDC is also a real representation of how the National Broadband Network is acting as a force multiplier for investment in Australia. The NBN and the vision of the Digital Economy is encouraging investment and innovation in Australia’s ICT landscape” said Mr Scroggie.

 

In addition to the impressive array of ICT technology housed in the building, M1 will also have the country’s largest commercial rooftop solar array in Australia. The $1.2 million array is expected to generate 400kW and will be installed by local firm Energy Matters.