The Uptime Institute is updating the way it certifies data centers in a move to help ensure that cloud computing customers get the level of service they think they’re paying for.

The Institute runs a tiering system in which it certifies data centers according to their ability to remain operational during critical equipment failures. Data centers with backups for key parts of their electrical infrastructure can earn the highest ratings, known as Tier III and Tier IV.

The Institute offers two types of certificates: one for the design of a facility, which is awarded based on the blueprints alone, and another for its construction, which is awarded after the data center has been completed and inspected. Companies sometimes want a design certificate because it can help them line up service contracts for a facility they plan to build.

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