Insights and Impressions from the Visit:

Under the guidance of Mr. Ma, we had the privilege of visiting the data center computer room and the power supply room and conducting an interview on topics of interest. Mr. Ma patiently and meticulously introduced us to the virtualized storage devices, the central control center, infrastructure management systems, security measures such as firewalls, network architecture and connectivity, uninterrupted power supply systems, backup systems, and provided explanations on the construction of private clouds and the use of public clouds, among other professional knowledge. It was an unforgettable journey into the world of information technology, where the concepts we had learned from textbooks were vividly demonstrated in front of us, leaving us with a rich harvest.

Upon entering the data center, the neatly arranged racks caught our eyes, housing virtualized storage devices and servers that, we were told, have a storage capacity and virtualization technology that surpasses other domestic publishing companies. The teacher informed us that the computer room utilizes advanced temperature control systems and humidity control devices, with the central control center monitoring 24/7 to ensure optimal operating conditions for all equipment. We observed blade servers arranged in an orderly manner on the racks, forming a vast and efficient computing and storage system. The firewall, network devices such as switches, routers, load balancers, backup devices, and other infrastructure were all operating efficiently. Dual power supply, UPS backup power, and multiple network connections ensured the stability and reliability of the data center.

The security of the computer room is of utmost importance. We observed strict access control systems, video surveillance devices, and security equipment such as firewalls. Inside the computer room, there were dedicated technical operations and maintenance personnel responsible for the daily upkeep and management of the equipment. Through remote monitoring, inspection, and regular maintenance, they ensured the normal operation of the computer room. Additionally, the computer room had dedicated emergency plans and backup systems in place. In the event of a failure or an uncontrollable disaster, emergency plans could be promptly initiated, and data recovery could be achieved through the backup system.

We also learned that this data center not only serves the company's internal information and digital construction needs and provides technical support for all external platforms and system services, but it also offers server hosting services for domestic and international publishing institutions. The construction and operation of the data center are stable and reliable, meeting the requirements of Level 3 Information Security Protection. There is a close connection between technology and business, as professional technical personnel make the most of technological resources to serve the development of the business. China Academic Library & Information System (CALIS) has become one of the long-term preservation nodes for China's national digital resources, and one of the important reasons is that the data center meets the requirements of infrastructure construction and platform support.

Through this visit and learning experience, we have broadened our horizons, gained new knowledge, and gained a better understanding of data center construction, as well as cloud storage and services. We realized that the data center is the heart of information and digital management and services, serving as a crucial support for business development

Summary of the Visit and Interview

Through the interview with Mr. Ma, I gained an understanding of the basic information required for data center construction and operation in the publishing industry, deepening my understanding of hardware and infrastructure such as cloud storage.

1.Changes in self-awareness: Through the interview, I further realized that: First, it is important to combine technology with business and focus on advanced technology and practical application effects. Second, security is crucial, and attention should be given to hardware, software, and management from all aspects. Third, data center construction and operation require day-to-day support in the background. It is necessary to prevent risks in advance, quickly identify and solve problems when they occur, and summarize experience afterward to minimize negative impacts and avoid similar issues in the future.

2.Help for my academic studies and future career development: This interview has opened another door for me in the field of information technology. I realized that the stable, reliable, and efficient technical support provided by the data center is essential for the front-end platforms and systems to present themselves in a "glamorous" manner. For me, there are still many things to plan and implement in terms of learning personal professional knowledge and practicing technical skills. Regardless, I need to focus on learning the basics solidly, pay attention to cutting-edge development directions, and gradually find my own interests and development path while acquiring knowledge, experience, and skills.

Interviewee: Mr. Xiaosheng Ma
Interview Date: July 10, 2023
Interview Method: On-site visit to the data center computer room and UPS power system, face-to-face interview

Interviewees: Tianwei Li, Wharton Zheng

Interviewee's Profile:
Head of the data center in China National Publications Import & Export (Group) Co., Ltd., responsible for overall data center construction and operation. Previously worked in CALIS(China Academic Library & Information System) Management Center, responsible for technical support for computer room hardware and network.