Microsoft has officially ended Project Natick, their experiment with underwater data centers that began in 2015. Noelle Walsh, Head of Microsoft’s Cloud Operations + Innovation, mentioned to Data Center Dynamics that they will not be building subsea data centers anymore. The project was a success, providing valuable insights into operating below sea level and the effects of vibration on servers, which will be applied to other cases.
The underwater data center project was initially tested off the coast of Scotland in 2018, where 855 servers were placed underwater for over two years. Surprisingly, only six servers failed, resulting in a 0.7% failure rate underwater compared to a 5.9% rate on land. Ben Cutler, the lead of Project Natick, attributed this success to the absence of humans interacting with the servers and the use of less corrosive nitrogen instead of oxygen.
Microsoft Research’s technical team principal member, Spencer Fowers, expressed enthusiasm about the findings, highlighting the potential to operate efficiently with less infrastructure focused on power and reliability. Despite its promising nature, Project Natick ultimately did not progress further, with Microsoft exploring other advanced technologies like robotics to enhance data center operations. Walsh mentioned that robotics could automate tasks involving heavy new servers, reducing the need for manual labor.
While Microsoft has discontinued its underwater initiative, companies in China and other regions are embarking on their underwater data center projects. This shift in focus towards innovative technologies and sustainable practices reflects the evolving landscape of data center operations globally.
In addition to exploring robotics, Microsoft is also researching modular nuclear reactors as potential power sources for data centers. This strategic approach aligns with the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements while considering the implications for the workforce.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, it is essential for companies like Microsoft to adapt and embrace new technologies to remain competitive and drive innovation. While the closure of Project Natick marks the end of an era, it opens up opportunities for further exploration and development in the realm of data center operations and sustainability.
