Go Daddy Adds European Data Center

The huge domain registrar and web host Go Daddy is expanding its global network with a new data center in the Netherlands. The new facility is designed to improve the performance of sites for European users, moving content closer to the end user. The company didn't specify the location of the new facility, but Amsterdam is one of Europe's largest data center markets and a critical connectivity hub for Internet traffic.

Go Daddy indicated that it will be operating its own data center. "By spending the money up front and not outsourcing operations, we control key factors like uptime, security and speed" said Go Daddy CEO and founder Bob Parsons. "No one will take better care of our customers than we will - no one."

Go Daddy said it also hopes to expand its customer base in Europe. The Scottsdale, Ariz. company is already the world's largest registrar, managing more than 36 million names for 7 million customers. Go Daddy is seeking to boost its customer base in Germany, France, the U.K. and Spain, which all have Internet penetration that is double the global average. 

Back to the Super Bowl
Go Daddy also said Monday that it planned to once again purchase advertising during the Super Bowl, reaching agreement with CBS for two 30-second slots in the 2010 Super Bowl broadcast Feb. 7. The company has become one of the most closely-watched Super Bowl advertisers since its controversial ads in the 2005 game boosted the company's business and profile.

“I’ve always believed in making quick decisions, but this one was a no-brainer given our history, especially coming off last year’s ad which ranked as the Super Bowl’s Most Watched,” said Parsons, referring to viewing data from Tivo users. “Most web companies pulled the plug in ‘09 due to financials. And every year people say Go Daddy can’t top the previous year – every year we prove them dead wrong!”

Last year’s 30-second Super Bowl slots sold for upward of $3 million, according to USA Today.