With the recent power blackout that affected most of Ontario and the northeastern USA, we take this opportunity to let you know what emergency measures and failsafe systems we have in place to ensure maximum uptime and data protection.

Power - Our web-hosting servers are housed in a facility with a backup power system, which includes battery backups for short-term power failures, and a diesel generator with enough capacity to supply electricity to the datacenter indefinitely, in the event of prolonged power outages.

Lightning/Power Surges - Computer equipment and related telecommunications devices are particularly susceptible to damage caused by electrical surges and currency fluctuations. A number of systems are in place to prevent this. The building's entire steel structure is grounded to an 8-point grounding grid system for lightning protection. Additionally, all servers are connected to APC UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) comprised of systems that offer further protection from lightning, power surges, dirty power and other anomalies.

Fire - Prevention/Detection/Suppression - The buildings structure is comprised of non-flammable materials (concrete/steel frame). Proper ventilation and air conditioning are maintained. (Also see Environmental Control below). Early warning provided through monitored smoke detection and alarm systems. Dry chemical fire extinguishers installed and maintained.

Earthquakes/Hurricanes - Our servers are located in a geographically stable region, not susceptible to earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes, tsunamis or volcanoes.

Flood - Our hosting facility is located above the flood plane and all servers are located on the second floor - 12 feet above ground level, which puts it at 690 feet above sea level.

Environmental Control - High performance, sensitive electronic equipment requires precise, reliable control of room temperature, humidity, and air flow. This is accomplished via industry leading Liebert air conditioning systems including a 10 Ton unit and a 2 Ton backup unit. The server room is glass-enclosed for greater environmental control.

Network - Our hosting network was designed with reliability and redundancy in mind, using best in class routers and Ethernet switches. In addition, Internet connectivity is received through 3 different providers and 6 unique circuits, so that if failure occurs in one segment, other segments automatically take over. The system is monitored and notifications sent via email, pager and cell phone if trouble occurs.

Security - No public access permitted. Building structure is all concrete and steel. Monitored alarm system, plus internal and external cameras defend against unauthorized access.

Data Loss - We make frequent backups of website files and related data, including offsite backups, to ensure your important information is safe from loss.

Disaster Simulation - Disaster simulation exercises are performed on a regular basis to ensure backup systems work as intended. The most recent session took place on June 13, 2003, at which time the entire facility was on generator power for approximately 3 hours. No anomalies or variances were found and all equipment functioned as designed.