Data center operator Equinix (NASDAQ:EQIX) and leading chip manufacturer Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) have announced a strategic partnership to offer Nvidia’s supercomputing systems to corporate clients. This collaboration aims to provide businesses with an opportunity to own their artificial intelligence (AI) computing systems, offering enhanced control over their data. This approach differs from the common practice of renting Nvidia’s powerful chips through cloud computing providers such as Amazon.com (NASDAQ:AMZN) or Microsoft (NASDAQ”MSFT).
Large enterprises have increasingly expressed interest in establishing their AI computing systems to address privacy and security concerns. However, Nvidia systems differ from conventional data center servers, often requiring specialized networking cabling and liquid cooling.
Under the terms of the partnership, Nvidia has trained Equinix staff on the construction and operation of its systems. Corporate customers will purchase Nvidia systems while entrusting Equinix to efficiently build and manage them, allowing businesses to maintain ownership and control over their AI infrastructure.
Jon Lin, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Data Center Services at Equinix, highlighted the emphasis on privacy, stating, “We want to drive privacy because what we’re hearing at large customers is they are very worried about controlling their destiny.” Lin also acknowledged the challenge of operating AI data centers efficiently and effectively, citing it as a new set of capabilities not widely available.
The joint offering, effective immediately, provides businesses with an alternative solution for AI infrastructure management, catering to the growing demand for privacy and control over AI computing systems. Although specific customers were not disclosed at the time of the announcement, the partnership signifies a significant step in providing enterprises with options for implementing and maintaining their AI capabilities.
Featured Image: Megapixl
