10 Digital Realty Competitors & Alternatives

Digital Realty is a real estate investment trust (REIT) with over 300 carrier-neutral data centers worldwide. It provides colocation, interconnection, and cloud services to enterprises and hyperscale cloud providers.

While Digital Realty is a good choice for colocation and data center services, this provider is not ideal for every business.

This article lists 10 Digital Realty competitors and alternatives for businesses looking for data center services. Read on for alternative providers that offer services comparable to Digital Realty's and find the one that aligns with your IT strategy.

10 Digital Realty Alternatives

If Digital Realty does not meet your business needs, several other colocation providers offer strong connectivity, security, and scalability features. Below, we break down 10 Digital Realty competitors, highlighting their key strengths to help you make an informed choice.

phoenixNAP

phoenixNAP is a global IT services provider specializing in dedicated servers, colocation, cloud computing, and IaaS solutions. With a network of 18 data centers and 11 points of presence (PoPs) spanning five continents, phoenixNAP delivers scalable infrastructure for enterprises with high-performance workloads.

The company offers transparent pricing, regulatory compliance, and a strong focus on security, making it an ideal choice for finance, healthcare, and real-time data processing businesses.

The key features & advantages of phoenixNAP are:

• Expansive global reach with carrier-neutral connectivity, 9+ Tbps of bandwidth, and direct cloud on-ramps to AWS Direct Connect and Google Cloud Interconnect.
• High-density infrastructure supporting up to 500 watts/sq.ft., ideal for AI HPC and dense server deployments.
• On-demand Hardware-as-a-Service (HaaS) for scalable infrastructure, from single servers to full racks.
• Bare Metal Cloud (BMC) with 50+ pre-configured instances deployable within minutes.
• Enterprise-grade security with advanced firewalls, encryption protocols, and intrusion detection systems (IDSes).
• Regulatory compliance with SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR, SOX, and GLBA certifications.
• Data security cloud, developed with Intel and VMware, for highly secure cloud storage.
• Disaster recovery & backup solutions that ensure business continuity and prevent permanent data loss.
• Hybrid and managed private cloud options to integrate on-prem and cloud resources.
• 24/7 dedicated support with round-the-clock technical assistance.
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees and flexible payment options.

phoenixNAP's flagship data center in Phoenix offers over 100,000 square feet of colocation space, with a planned 530,000-square-foot expansion. Designed for businesses seeking scalability, security, and sustainability, phoenixNAP combines performance-driven infrastructure with environmentally friendly data center practices to support future IT needs.

phoenixNAP stands out as a better choice than Digital Realty due to its strong focus on security, compliance-driven infrastructure, and flexible, high-performance cloud and bare metal solutions designed for modern workloads.

Equinix

Equinix is a global digital infrastructure company headquartered in Redwood City, CA. With a network of over 260 data centers across 33 countries on five continents, Equinix is an excellent choice for businesses that require secure, high-performance colocation and interconnection services.

The key features & advantages of Equinix are:

• Global reach with data centers in over 70 metro areas across 33 countries.
• Equinix Fabric, an advanced software-defined interconnection solution that enables software-defined interconnections between clouds, networks, and partners.
• Equinix Metal & Network Edge, services that provide infrastructure optimized for edge computing and low-latency applications.
• High-performance infrastructure ideal for AI workloads, high-frequency trading, and enterprise cloud solutions.
• A carrier-neutral ecosystem with direct connections to major cloud providers.
• Scalable colocation services with customizable power and cooling options.
• Security & compliance with SOC 1/2/3, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR certifications.
• Equinix Internet Exchange, a global peering solution that fosters collaboration among 10,000+ businesses.
• Sustainability initiatives with a commitment to renewable energy, carbon neutrality, and heat repurposing.

Equinix is a top-tier choice for large enterprises, SaaS providers, and businesses that require ultra-low-latency connectivity. The company's carrier-neutral data centers and strong cloud partnerships make it a good option for hybrid and multi-cloud setups.

TierPoint

TierPoint is a hybrid IT and colocation provider headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. The company specializes in edge computing, managed cloud services, and disaster recovery, making it a strong choice for enterprises that seek a secure, high-performance IT infrastructure within the United States. Its focus on regional coverage ensures reliability for businesses operating in disaster-prone areas.

TierPoint's key features include:

• Operating over 40 data centers across more than 20 U.S. markets, offering broad regional coverage.
• Up to 85kW density support for high-performance computing.
• Carrier-neutral colocations with direct access to AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure.
• Hybrid IT solutions that integrate colocation with cloud-based disaster recovery.
• Minimal latency with strategically placed data centers for real-time applications.
• 24/7 on-site support, managed IT solutions, and remote hands services.
• Strict security and compliance standards, including SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and ISO 27001.
• Power and cooling optimized for lower environmental impact.
• Business continuity guarantee with SLA-backed 100% uptime.

TierPoint is an excellent option for organizations that require regional data center coverage, edge computing capabilities, and hybrid cloud disaster recovery solutions. Its combination of colocation, cloud, and managed services makes it well-suited for businesses that need secure and scalable IT infrastructure across the U.S.

Iron Mountain

Iron Mountain, Inc., headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is a global colocation and data storage provider known for its strong focus on compliance, security, and sustainability. The secure records management background makes Iron Mountain a trusted partner for highly regulated industries such as government, healthcare, and finance.

Its colocation and cloud services cater to businesses requiring strict data protection standards, disaster recovery solutions, and a sustainable IT infrastructure.

Iron Mountain has the following features:

• Over 25 data centers across North America, Europe, and Asia.
• Flexible connectivity solutions, including direct cloud access, peering, internet exchanges, and virtual cross-connects.
• Security and compliance through FISMA, FedRAMP, HIPAA, SOC 2, ISO 27001, and PCI DSS standards.
• Highly scalable colocation services with flexible deployment options.
• Robust disaster recovery, backup, and business continuity solutions.
• Hybrid and multi-cloud environments with direct connections to AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
• Sustainability commitment with 100% renewable energy usage and zero-waste initiatives.
• 24/7/365 customer support with expert technical assistance.

Iron Mountain stands out for its expertise in compliance-driven industries and its commitment to green data center initiatives. While it provides robust colocation and storage solutions, businesses seeking extensive managed IT services may need to supplement Iron Mountain with third-party providers or consider alternative options.

Cologix

Cologix is a North American colocation and interconnection provider of high-connectivity data centers. With a network-neutral approach, Cologix provides enterprises, cloud providers, and carriers with scalable infrastructure, optimized network performance, and low-latency connectivity. Its strategically placed facilities in high-demand regions make it an attractive option for businesses seeking strong interconnection capabilities in key markets.

The provider has the following key features:

• Over 40 data centers in 11 strategic U.S. and Canadian markets, including Montreal, Toronto, Dallas, and Vancouver.
• A dense interconnection ecosystem with direct access to over 700 networks, major cloud providers, and internet exchanges.
• Low-latency solutions for enterprises, CDNs, and cloud services, optimizing network routes to reduce congestion.
• Meet-me rooms (MMRs) that streamline interconnection between networks and service providers.
• 24/7 on-site support with remote hands services.
• Strict security and compliance standards, including SOC 1, SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and ISO 27001.
• Focus on sustainability with carbon reduction initiatives and renewable energy procurement.

Cologix's edge market strategy and strong interconnection capabilities make it an excellent choice for businesses that prioritize low-latency connectivity. However, enterprises needing a global footprint may find broader providers like Digital Realty or phoenixNAP better suited to their needs.

CoreSite

CoreSite, a subsidiary of American Tower Corporation, is a colocation and hybrid IT service provider specializing in high-performance and low-latency connectivity. With 28 data centers across 11 major U.S. markets, CoreSite offers flexible colocation solutions designed for enterprises that require direct cloud connectivity and seamless interconnection.

CoreSite's key features are:

• Operations in key U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Silicon Valley, Chicago, New York, and Northern Virginia.
• Carrier-neutral interconnections with over 450 network providers and direct cloud on-ramps to AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and Oracle.
• High-density colocation solutions suitable for compute-heavy applications with minimal downtime.
• 99.999% uptime for premium clients.
• Disaster recovery services to protect against cyber attacks, hardware failures, and data breaches.
• 24/7 on-site support, managed services, and dedicated account managers.
• Compliance with industry standards, including SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and ISO 27001.
• Sustainability with energy-efficient operations and renewable energy initiatives.

CoreSite is a strong choice for enterprises focused on hybrid cloud integration and low-latency interconnection within the U.S. However, providers like Digital Realty or phoenixNAP may be better alternatives for organizations that require a more global reach.

CyrusOne

CyrusOne is a global colocation provider that specializes in enterprise-grade infrastructure for high-performance computing, AI, and hybrid cloud environments. With over 50 data centers across North America, Europe, and Asia, CyrusOne offers secure and scalable solutions for businesses with demanding workloads.

Some key CyrusOne features are:

• 50+ strategically located data centers covering key global markets such as Dallas, Frankfurt, London, and Singapore.
• Carrier-neutral colocation with direct connections to AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, and other cloud providers.
• High-density power deployments (N+1, 2N, 2N+1) and advanced cooling techniques, including liquid cooling and adaptive aisle containment.
• Intelliscale, an AI-optimized infrastructure designed for machine learning, big data, and compute-heavy applications.
• Business continuity with customizable disaster recovery solutions.
• Compliance with industry standards, including HIPAA, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, SOC 2 Type 2, and SSAE 18.
• Round-the-clock technical support and remote hands services.
• Commitment to sustainability with energy-efficient infrastructure and climate neutrality goals.

CyrusOne is an excellent choice for enterprises, hyperscalers, and government agencies that need high-density colocation with extensive interconnections. However, organizations looking for more transparent pricing and flexible contract options may find providers like phoenixNAP or Digital Realty more suitable.

NTT Global Data Centers

NTT Global Data Centers, a division of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation (NTT), is a leading colocation and IT infrastructure provider with a vast global footprint. Offering secure, high-performance data center solutions, NTT is a strong competitor in the enterprise colocation and interconnection space.

NTT's key features include:

• 600,000+ square meters of data center space across 20 countries, with key locations in North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and South Africa.
• Custom cage solutions for secure mission-critical IT deployments.
• Low-latency, high-performance connectivity through NTT's extensive global network and investments in undersea cables for enhanced international data transfer.
• Advanced cooling technologies, including Liquid Immersion Cooling and Direct Contact Liquid Cooling, to optimize efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
• Interconnection services that facilitate seamless hybrid and multi-cloud deployments.

NTT Global Data Centers best suits international enterprises requiring high-performance connectivity and sustainable infrastructure. However, businesses that need a North America-focused provider may find other providers better aligned with their needs.

Centersquare

Centersquare, formerly known as Cyxtera, is a colocation and interconnection provider created through the merger of Evoque Data Center Solutions and Cyxtera. The company delivers scalable, high-performance colocation solutions focusing on security, compliance, and cloud connectivity.

The key differentiators of Centersquare are:

• 72 data centers across 26 strategic markets, covering 1.9 million square feet of data center space.
• Access to 200+ network and technology service providers, ensuring high-speed, carrier-neutral connectivity.
• Strict standard compliance, including HIPAA, NIST 800-53 PE High, SSAE18 SOC-1, SOC-2, ISO 27001, and PCI DSS, making it ideal for regulated industries.
• On-demand provisioning and software-defined networking (SDN) to enable rapid scaling and hybrid cloud deployments.
• Biometric access controls, entrance mantraps, ballistic paneling, and 24/7 surveillance for enhanced protection.
• N+1 redundancy and advanced cooling to support high-density and AI-driven workloads.

Centersquare is an excellent choice for enterprises that seek scalable, high-security colocation services with robust cloud and interconnection options. However, companies that require hyperscale deployments may find other providers more suitable.

Flexential

Flexential is a hybrid IT solutions provider that specializes in colocation, cloud, and disaster recovery services across the United States. With over 40 strategically located data centers, Flexential delivers scalable and high-performance infrastructure for enterprises and mid-sized businesses.

The key features of Flexential are:

• 40+ data centers across 19 U.S. markets, ensuring nationwide coverage and edge computing capabilities.
• High-density colocation with power configurations that support AI, GPU-driven workloads, and enterprise IT solutions.
• Direct cloud connectivity to AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, and other cloud providers.
• FlexAnywhere platform that enables seamless workload optimization, centralized IT management, and interconnection across its data centers.
• Robust Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) with automated failover, continuous data protection, and customizable recovery plans.
• Strict compliance standards, including HIPAA, PCI DSS, HITRUST, ISO 27001, SOC 1, SOC 2, SOC 3, and ITAR.
• High-speed networking with a 100 Gbps backbone, ensuring low latency performance for cloud applications and disaster recovery solutions.
• SLA-backed 99.999% uptime guarantees for premium clients.
• Energy-efficient cooling solutions, including liquid cooling with a Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) of 0, which reduces environmental impact.

Flexential is an ideal choice for healthcare, finance, and government businesses that require strict compliance, uptime guarantees, and disaster recovery solutions. However, companies needing a global presence may find Digital Realty or phoenixNAP better suited to their needs.

Digital Realty Alternatives: How to Choose

Before selecting a Digital Realty alternative, assess your business objectives and IT requirements. There are several factors to consider when exploring other options:

• Global coverage. Digital Realty's extensive network is impressive, yet its geographic focus might not perfectly align with your global expansion plans. Seek providers that offer a truly international footprint if worldwide connectivity is a priority.
• Managed solutions. While Digital Realty specializes in colocation, many alternatives offer fully managed cloud or hybrid IT services. These managed options can provide enhanced support and reduced operational overhead, especially beneficial if your team prefers a hands-off approach.
• Scalability & flexibility. As your business grows, your infrastructure needs will evolve. Prioritize providers that deliver flexible, scalable solutions - from bare metal servers to cloud platforms - to ensure your IT environment can expand seamlessly.
• Security & compliance. For enterprises handling sensitive data, robust security and adherence to industry standards such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, or GDPR are essential. Choose a partner that prioritizes regulatory compliance and offers state-of-the-art security measures.
• Industry-specific offerings. Different businesses have unique needs. Some alternatives may offer specialized services, such as optimized environments for finance, healthcare, or eCommerce, ensuring a better fit for your specific industry requirements.
• Developer-friendly tools. If your technical team values automation and customization, look for providers with extensive developer support. APIs, SDKs, and seamless integrations can streamline operations and reduce time-to-market.
• Trial periods. Most providers offer trial periods or pilot programs. Use them to assess performance, customer support, and compatibility with your IT strategy before committing long-term.

Grow Your Business with Smart Decisions

Choosing the right data center partner is a strategic decision that can propel your business into the future. By weighing factors like global reach, managed services, scalability, security, and industry-specific needs, you can find a Digital Realty alternative that fills the gaps of the provider and enhances your IT infrastructure. Leverage trial periods to test performance and ensure your chosen provider aligns perfectly with your long-term vision for growth and innovation.