The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and the computing power required to train and deploy advanced models have driven a surge in data center development at a scale not seen before. According to UBS, companies will spend $375 billion globally this year on AI infrastructure and $500 billion next year. It is projected that more than 4,750 data centers will be under construction in primary markets in the United States alone in 2025.

While data center investments often focus on servers, power, and cooling, Cellular Connectivity is an underrated element in ensuring these facilities operate reliably and safely long term. It’s important for operators to understand how this impacts both commercial operations and public safety.

Supporting Technicians and On-Site Personnel

Reliable cellular connectivity is important in day-to-day operations for technicians, engineers, and contractors. From accessing digital work orders to coordinating with off-site experts, mobile devices are central tools for keeping operations running smoothly.

The challenge is that signal strength often weakens in the very areas where staff spend the most time: data halls, mechanical rooms, and utility spaces. Consistent coverage across the entire facility eliminates those gaps. It allows technicians to complete tasks more efficiently, reduces delays, and ensures that communications remain uninterrupted.

Connectivity also improves worker safety. Personnel must be able to reach colleagues or emergency services at any time, regardless of where they are in the facility. Reliable connectivity helps protect both people and operations.

Cellular Connectivity for Data Center Operations

Data centers are highly complex ecosystems, requiring constant monitoring, rapid coordination, and efficient communication. They are also often built in remote locations with plenty of land and natural resources to help with cooling, but this results in terrible cellular connectivity. In addition, they are primarily constructed of steel and concrete for stability and fire resistance, which are also incredibly challenging for radio frequency (RF) to penetrate naturally. Weak signals or dropped calls can delay problem resolution, introduce operational risks, and reduce resiliency.

In the event of an emergency, the stakes are even higher. Cellular service becomes the lifeline for coordinating evacuation procedures, communicating with local authorities, and enabling first responders to perform their duties. Without strong coverage throughout the facility, including in underground or shielded areas, response times can be compromised.

Solutions like distributed antenna systems (DAS) help solve this challenge by connecting base stations to the site, bringing wireless connectivity from the macro network to inside the facility ensuring operators can maintain real-time contact with vendors, remote support teams, and internal staff.

As new facilities increasingly rise in remote or challenging environments, extending reliable cellular service inside the building ensures operational continuity, no matter the location or construction materials involved.

Unified Cellular Networks for Lower Costs

Even though there is record data center spending, cellular infrastructure can be costly. But there are ways to mitigate the expenses up front. Normally, DAS is implemented in large facilities due to public safety requirements. Building codes enforced by authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) require in-building coverage for emergency communications, ensuring that first responders can connect reliably in critical situations. These mandates drive the deployment of emergency responder communication enhancement systems (ECRES) designed to meet strict performance standards in adherence with the International Fire Code (IFC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Often too late, most operators realize that this infrastructure can deliver substantial benefits for their own staff, but at this point, it usually requires an entirely separate system in parallel with the public safety system, including new remote units, cables, and passive components. But if operators are to be forward thinking and install them both at the same time, the system can serve both public safety and commercial cellular needs within a unified architecture.

The advantages are significant. A unified cellular network reduces the cost and complexity of building two separate systems in parallel. It also ensures that first responders, facility operators, and everyday users all benefit from consistent connectivity throughout the building. It is also capable of supporting evolving technologies such as 5G and emerging public safety requirements.

Developing Resilience

As AI accelerates the demand for new data centers, operators must look beyond traditional infrastructure requirements. Power and cooling remain fundamental, but so too does the ability to maintain clear and reliable lines of communication. Cellular coverage should not be a secondary concern because it supports remote monitoring, emergency response, technician efficiency, and worker safety. When deployed as a unified cellular solution, it also maximizes investment by serving both public safety and commercial needs.

In a mission-critical environment like data center operations, uninterrupted communication onsite and with outside stakeholders is non-negotiable. As facilities continue to expand in size and complexity, cellular connectivity will be essential in ensuring it is always operational with minimal downtime.

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About the Author:

Mohammed Ali is the manager of DAS Engineering at Advanced RF Technologies, Inc. (ADRF), responsible for leading the DAS engineering division within the company across all global accounts. He has more than 10 years of experience in in-building DAS engineering and wireless network planning. Prior to joining ADRF, Mohammed worked as an RF Engineer at TeleworX and Huawei Technologies Sudan and a Network Management Engineer at ZAIN Sudan. Mohammed holds a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications Engineering from the University of Khartoum in Sudan and a Master’s of Science degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the University of Maryland.