Data Center Links: IO Hires Veterans of Groupon, Apple

Here’s our review of some of this week’s noteworthy links for the data center industry:

IO adds key executive appointments.  IO announced Alan McIntosh, former Chief Information Officer at Groupon has been appointed Senior Vice President of Global Technology Delivery and Apple marketing veteran Anne Wolf has been appointed Senior Vice President of Global Marketing & Communications. Additionally, Bob Butler has been promoted to Chief Security Officer (CSO) in charge of global information security and privacy. "At IO you are the average of your team," says George D. Slessman, CEO of IO. "As we approach the tipping point for Data Center 2.0 globally, IO is succeeding by attracting, developing and nurturing world class talent like Alan, Anne and Bob."

Equinix expands in Sydney.  Equinix (EQIX) announced the opening of phase two of its Sydney (SY3) data center, substantially increasing its Australian capacity. Announced in April of this year, the second phase was a $39.4 million investment that doubled capacity. Once the third and final phase of SY3 is completed, the data center will provide 72,850 square feet and capacity for 3,000 cabinets. The Equinix Sydney IBX is the most densely connected data center in Australia with over 100 networks including a direct link to the Southern Cross Cables Network  and PIPE Pacific Cable (PPC-1). “We have seen significant growth in cloud adoption in Australia and we expect this trend to continue.  Equinix Sydney has a well-developed and diverse business ecosystem of partners and service providers. Our IBXs provide the optimum place for customers including cloud, digital content, enterprise, financial services and network providers to connect with their customers and partners,” said Tony Simonsen, managing director, Equinix Australia.

Colt adds microwave service between London and Frankfurt.  Colt Technology Services announced that it has introduced a microwave service between London and Frankfurt. Colt will be the first managed services provider with microwave service, enabling trading houses to reduce the time it takes to access the market by up to 40 percent. "Our customers are always looking for speed to market advantage," said Andy Young, low latency specialist at Colt. "What is significant about Colt's announcement is that we can offer both fibre and microwave services to our customers. This allows us to provide commercially flexible packages that ensure our customers can take advantage of using the speed of microwave where it will make the most difference.