Technology Takes the Stage in North Dakota

By Seth Arndorfer

Where are you storing your data? In our increasingly connected world, the answer to this question can be critical to business success. We are producing immense amounts of data, which continue to grow quickly, particularly in the areas of health care, finance and education. And while we are all busy generating massive amounts of data, cyber criminals are constantly on the prowl, developing new ways to steal and exploit it.

So unless you are one of the rare businesses that have managed to find a way to successfully exist entirely offline, there is no question you are generating data. But where are you storing it, and is it safe?

In the past, some companies opted to keep data storage in-house. This worked for a while, but as demands for space and security measures have grown, it is no longer feasible for many businesses to justify the expense of building bunkers and the necessary redundant network connections. Instead, more companies are using data centers, where they can easily expand space as needed and know that optimal security measures and connections are in place to keep their data safe.

Dakota Carrier Network has constructed two data centers in North Dakota — the first in Fargo in 2006 and the second in Bismarck in 2012. Demand for our data center space has steadily increased in the past few years and we expect this trend to continue for the foreseeable future. In fact, DCN is celebrating the addition of 30,000 square feet of space to its existing data center in Bismarck, a direct result of increased customer demand. The new space will provide storage for customers from throughout the U.S., along with advanced security features such as private suites, which allow customers the highest level of exclusivity.

The growing demand for data storage also reflects the advancements North Dakota has made in its quest to embrace the technology boom and its role in boosting rural economies. The Dakota Fiber Initiative has focused on providing high-speed internet access to every household and business in the state. As of 2016, that goal has been largely realized. DCN and its owner companies alone have installed 40,000 miles of fiber optic cable throughout North Dakota in the past 15 years, reaching every community in the state. That fiber optic network provides businesses a connection to hubs in Chicago, Denver, Seattle and Minneapolis, and from there to markets anywhere in the world, allowing even the most remotely located businesses in North Dakota to remain competitive in the global economy. The expansive fiber network has also allowed DCN and its member companies to develop the nation’s first statewide WiFi network, which will provide customers with a secure mobile connection at access points.

There is no question that technology is now vital to our everyday life, including the way we do business. We are proud to be based in a state that values technological innovation and supports efforts to expand access to technology to everyone who lives and does business here. PB

Seth Arndorfer CEO DAKOTA CARRIER NETWORK FARGO 701.323.3000 SARNDORFER@DAKOTACARRIER.COM