Network-neutral data center provider, Cologix, recently announced that Backblaze, a cloud storage company, will be deploying its services at Cologix’s TOR3 digital edge data center in Toronto.
Partnership brings data storage compliant with Canadian regulations
The collaboration on the deployment will feature “a high-capacity setup with dedicated power and a direct fiber connection to Cologix’s TOR1 digital edge data center, Canada’s largest carrier hotel.” It will provide fast access to multiple network providers and TorIX.
Backblaze’s expansion into TOR3 allows the organization to offer cloud storage solutions that meet strict local regulations to enable those companies to store and process data in Canada.
“Partnering with Cologix enables us to directly address the growing need for in-country data storage in Canada,” said Chris Opat, Sr. VP, Cloud Operations of Backblaze. “TOR3’s robust infrastructure and connectivity, combined with our cost-effective storage solutions, empowers international businesses to maintain data sovereignty without compromising performance or affordability.”
TOR3 is a Tier III facility located in Toronto. It has two megawatts of power and is a highly secure and efficient colocation and interconnection hub featuring industry-leading cooling designs, 24/7 security with biometric dual authentication access, and compliance with SOC 1, SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and ISO 27001 certification by Schellman. The facility provides high-capacity connectivity to 160+ networks and 50+ cloud providers.
“The addition of Backblaze to our TOR3 facility further strengthens our position as a key enabler of digital transformation in Canada,” said Sean Maskell, President and General Manager, Cologix Canada. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing state-of-the-art digital infrastructure that not only meets the growing demand for high-performance cloud storage, but also addresses critical data sovereignty requirements.”
Both Backblaze and Cologix have continually worked to build their presence in Canada. The cloud services market has been expanding in Canada, driven by the healthcare and finance industries and government entities requiring data to remain within Canadian borders.
Cologix has expanded its Canadian operations over the past 10 years and operates a portfolio of 22 data centers across Montréal, Toronto, and Vancouver, providing 1,057,000 square feet of space and 94MW of power. Further, the data center provider has a Canadian interconnection ecosystem of 350 networks, 200+ cloud providers, 15 public cloud onramps, and three internet exchanges.
Backblaze north of the border
Recently, Backblaze introduced its new data region, Canada East (CA East) further expanding its footprint in the North American market.
The new region, located in Toronto, is designed to address the specific needs of Canadian businesses and organizations. It also meets laws and regulations requiring data to be stored within Canada. The expansion allows customers to ensure compliance with local regulations while taking advantage of a cloud solution that prioritizes data sovereignty.
Further, it delivers performance benefits for Canadian customers by reducing data travel distance. Backblaze can also offer lower latency and improved speeds for Canadian customers.
Backblaze is also partnering with Opti9, a Canadian channel partner for Backblaze B2 Reserve, to deliver managed services to Canadian businesses. Opti9 is an international hybrid cloud solutions provider and a Veeam Cloud Storage Provider (VCSP).
As the amount of data explodes, cloud storage has significantly impacted how channel partners operate. Read more about solutions to scale cloud storage, enabling the deployment of AI agents, LLMs, and data-intensive applications.