Comprehensive Guide to Rackspace Cloud Hosting Features


Intro
In the rapidly evolving world of cloud computing, selecting a reliable hosting provider can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Rackspace Cloud Hosting stands out in this crowded field, offering a variety of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals and organizations alike. This guide aims to provide a thorough exploration of Rackspace, focusing on its features, pricing, security protocols, and more.
Understanding the ins and outs of cloud hosting is essential for software developers, IT professionals, and anyone interested in maximizing their digital infrastructure.
Purpose and Use Cases
Rackspace Cloud Hosting serves a multitude of purposes, ranging from hosting websites to supporting enterprise applications. Whether you’re a small business looking to scale or a tech-savvy student curious about cloud solutions, Rackspace can accommodate a wide spectrum of use cases:
- Web Hosting: Enjoy seamless website operations with high uptime guarantees.
- E-commerce: Ideal for online stores that require robust performance and reliability.
- Application Hosting: Suitable for developers needing a platform to test and deploy applications.
- Backup and Archiving: Reliable storage solutions for data security and recovery.
Key Features
Rackspace offers a suite of features designed to enhance user experience and capabilities. Here are some notable elements worth considering:
- Scalable Resources: Easily adjust resources as your usage demands change.
- Managed Services: Take advantage of expert support that manages infrastructure, allowing you to focus on your core business goals.
- Advanced Security: Features like firewalls, DDoS protection, and encryption protocols ensure data safety.
- Backup Solutions: Automate backups to secure your data against loss.
With these features, Rackspace not only provides a platform for hosting but also enhances the overall digital experience.
In-Depth Review
To truly understand Rackspace, one needs to delve deeper into its performance and user experience.
Performance Analysis
Performance is a cornerstone of any cloud hosting service. Rackspace claims to deliver high-speed performance with minimal latency. Users often report that their applications run seamlessly, even under heavy loads. The architecture deployed utilizes the latest hardware technology, ensuring that resources are readily available when needed.
Benchmarking Results
Consider looking into independent benchmarks that evaluate Rackspace’s performance alongside competitors. This data can provide insights into its strengths and weaknesses.
User Interface and Experience
The usability of a cloud hosting service can greatly influence the overall satisfaction of its users. Rackspace offers a user-friendly interface designed to streamline operations. The dashboard provides clear visibility of resource usage, billing, and performance metrics, making it easy to navigate through essential features.
Key aspects include:
- Intuitive Navigation: Users find it easy to locate settings and manage their services.
- Custom Dashboards: Allows users to tailor their views based on individual needs.
- Support Resources: Access to guides and customer support simplifies troubleshooting.
Understanding Rackspace Cloud Hosting
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, understanding cloud hosting has become essential for businesses and individuals alike. Rackspace Cloud Hosting stands as a pivotal player in this domain, offering a variety of services tailored to meet an array of needs. In this section, we will explore not just what Rackspace is, but also the broader significance of cloud hosting itself.
Overview of Rackspace
Rackspace was founded in 1998, and since then, it has steadily grown into one of the foremost names in cloud solutions. With its headquarters in San Antonio, Texas, Rackspace provides hosting services that include managed cloud, dedicated servers, and security options, among others. The company has specialized in keeping pace with technological advancements while offering reliable service. It has built a reputation on customer satisfaction, which is notable in a sector often plagued by gloomy support experiences.
The nature of Rackspace’s offerings can appeal to a wide audience, from small businesses looking to scale quickly to large enterprises in need of extensive cloud resources. By harnessing the latest innovations, Rackspace aims to simplify cloud utilization for its clients, whether they are in e-commerce, application development, or data management.
Defining Cloud Hosting
At its core, cloud hosting refers to the provision of service over the internet, rather than through local servers. It brings to the table flexibility and scalability that traditional hosting solutions simply cannot match. When we talk about cloud hosting, think about it like this: instead of relying on a single hard drive or server, resources are pooled together across a network of servers, leading to improved reliability and performance.
There are a few pivotal points to grasp regarding cloud hosting that set it apart:
- Scalability: Easily adjust your resources to match current demands.
- Cost-Efficiency: Pay-as-you-go models can lead to significant savings.
- Reliability: With multiple backups and redundancies, downtime is minimized.
Cloud hosting can be seen as a remote extension of your operational capabilities, eliminating the necessity for hefty capital expenditures while boosting your growth potential.
Ultimately, understanding these concepts is crucial for professionals in IT-related fields, software developers, and students. Being informed about Rackspace and cloud hosting can aid in making educated decisions about leveraging cloud technology effectively in various projects and applications.
Key Features of Rackspace Cloud Hosting


When you take a closer look at Rackspace Cloud Hosting, it’s crucial to zero in on its standout features. These features play a pivotal role in shaping user experience and ultimately define its place in the competitive cloud hosting landscape. Recognizing these elements not only helps potential users understand what they’re getting but also highlights the advantages they can expect when choosing this service.
Scalability and Flexibility
Scalability is the name of the game in cloud computing, and Rackspace nails it. Think of it as your cloud solution having the ability to stretch and adapt based on your needs. This means if your business suddenly experiences a spike in traffic—perhaps a seasonal sale or a viral marketing campaign—you won’t be left in the lurch. You can ramp up your resources on the fly without missing a beat. Similarly, in quieter times, you can dial resources back, so you’re not paying for more than you use. Flexibility in Rackspace’s offerings means that whether you’re running a budding e-commerce site or a data-intensive application, there’s a tailored solution in the mix that can cater to your specific requirements.
Managed Services
Definitions and Types
Managed services in Rackspace are akin to having a knowledgeable friend when you’re lost in a maze of technology. Simply put, these services allow you to offload some or all of your IT management responsibilities to Rackspace. This deft collaboration can include server management, application support, and even security monitoring. The types can vary widely—like a buffet—with options such as managed cloud hosting, managed databases, or even managed security services. This ever-expanding suite of offerings gives users the chance to focus on what they do best, while leaving the heavy lifting of IT to the experts. One of the key characteristics here is the depth of customization available, ensuring you get exactly what you need without the fluff.
- Key Types of Managed Services:
- Managed Cloud Hosting
- Managed Databases
- Managed Security Services
Each of these types leverages Rackspace’s expertise, ensuring your infrastructure is not only dependable but optimized for performance.
Benefits of Managed Hosting
Discussing the benefits of managed hosting within the Rackspace ecosystem leads to a straightforward conclusion—it's a smart choice for many organizations. One of the primary advantages lies in freeing up in-house IT resources. Teams can pivot from mundane maintenance tasks to innovative projects that can drive business growth, resulting in better resource allocation. The unique feature of having 24/7 expert support means that help is always just a call away, regardless of what time it is. However, potential users should also weigh the costs associated with managed services against their specific needs. If your business isn’t prepared for it yet, it may be worth starting with a more hands-on approach and migrating later.
"Managed services create a bridge between technology and business needs, ensuring that companies run efficiently without getting bogged down."
Global Data Center Network
The global reach of Rackspace’s data centers is another notable feature. With facilities spread across numerous regions, users can rest easy knowing their data is not only safe but also accessible from various locations. This is particularly advantageous for businesses that serve a global audience. Reduced latency and improved response times can significantly enhance the end-user experience. Furthermore, having data centers in diverse regions ensures compliance with local regulations, a crucial aspect for many organizations navigating complex data sovereignty laws.
Compliance and Security Standards
Lastly, compliance and security are at the forefront of concerns for any organization dabbling in cloud solutions. Rackspace does its due diligence by adhering to various compliance standards such as SOC 1, SOC 2, PCI DSS, and more. This strong emphasis on security means that whether it's data encryption, intrusion detection, or regular audits, users can expect robust protection for their assets. Additionally, Rackspace's approach is designed to simplify the compliance process for clients, allowing them to focus on their core business instead of getting tangled up in regulatory hurdles.
In sum, the key features of Rackspace Cloud Hosting encompass scalability, managed services, a global network, and stringent security protocols. Together, these elements not only enhance overall performance but also provide a solid foundation for businesses as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cloud computing.
Advantages of Using Rackspace Cloud Hosting
Using Rackspace Cloud Hosting comes with several compelling benefits that cater to varied needs of its users. It is relevant in this article because understanding these advantages helps businesses and individuals identify whether Rackspace can effectively serve their unique requirements for cloud computing. The advantages of enhanced performance, cost-effectiveness, and superior customer support make it stand out in the crowded cloud hosting market.
Enhanced Performance
One of the main draws of Rackspace Cloud Hosting is its ability to offer robust performance. This is crucial, especially for businesses that rely heavily on web applications or e-commerce platforms. With Rackspace, users can expect consistent speeds and high availability. This reliance on high-performing computing power means that websites are less likely to experience lag, which is non-negotiable in today's fast-paced digital environment.
Moreover, Rackspace leverages a global network of data centers. This means that your data can be closer to your users, allowing for faster access and improved load times. When businesses are online, every second counts, and even a slight delay could have negative effects on user experience and customer satisfaction. Therefore, investing in Rackspace for enhanced performance is often seen as a no-brainer for many.
Cost-Effectiveness
Cost is always a key consideration when it comes to cloud hosting. With Rackspace, users can find various pricing models that cater to different budgets, making it an attractive option for startups and larger enterprises alike. Rather than spending exorbitantly on in-house infrastructure, businesses can utilize a pay-as-you-go model, which is generally more cost-effective in the long run.
Also, the potential for minimizing overhead expenses is huge. Companies don’t have to stress about the costs associated with physical servers, like maintenance or upgrades. Instead, they can focus on their core business activities, leaving technical tasks to Rackspace. When comparing these savings against traditional hosting options, Rackspace's appeal becomes evident.
Superior Customer Support
/ Technical Assistance
Another substantive element of Rackspace’s offering is its unwavering commitment to customer support. The 24/7 technical assistance ensures that no matter the time or day, users have access to help whenever they need it. This level of availability is crucial in maintaining operations, especially for businesses that run round-the-clock.
The standout characteristic of this support system is the expertise available at all hours. Having a knowledgeable team right at your fingertips means that downtime can often be avoided. Thanks to this persistent assistance, a business can bounce back faster from issues, maintaining overall operational flow.
Additionally, the real-time responses can address potential problems even before they escalate, which can save companies from incurring further costs due to unexpected outages.
Expert Guidance
Along with technical assistance, Rackspace offers expert guidance tailored to their user's unique needs. This support goes beyond just fixing problems; it involves proactive strategies to enhance a business's cloud environment. The key characteristic here is the depth of knowledge that Rackspace's team brings to the table, which can be invaluable for clients who may not have extensive IT expertise.
One unique feature of this expert guidance is the ability for users to receive insights based on industry best practices tailored to their specific needs. This can help in optimizing usage and ensuring that businesses are taking full advantage of their cloud environment. While there can be a learning curve, the long-term advantages of having expert support are well worth it, making businesses more resilient and adaptive to changes.


"In today's competitive landscape, having reliable support is as critical as the technology itself—Rackspace ensures you don't go it alone."
Overall, the abundant advantages of using Rackspace Cloud Hosting render it an excellent choice for organizations and individuals who are serious about integrating cloud solutions into their operations. It balances performance with cost-effectiveness while offering a level of customer service that is hard to find elsewhere.
Comparison with Other Cloud Hosting Providers
In the ever-evolving landscape of cloud hosting, making the right choice is crucial for businesses and tech enthusiasts alike. Understanding how Rackspace stacks up against other significant players can help users navigate their cloud strategy more effectively. The relevance of this comparison lies in recognizing the distinct advantages and potential drawbacks each provider has to offer. Companies, especially those looking for tailored solutions, should weigh their options carefully to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. The following sections shed light on how Rackspace compares with AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, focusing on features, performance, and user experience.
Rackspace vs. AWS
When we talk about AWS, we’re diving into the largest cloud provider in the world. Amazon Web Services offers a broad spectrum of services and tools, which can be overwhelming. Rackspace, however, takes a different approach. While AWS leads in raw sheer amount of services, Rackspace is widely recognized for its managed services. This means users can expect not just cloud hosting but also hands-on support through various aspects of management. This is a game changer for businesses that might not have extensive in-house IT resources.
Notable elements in this comparison include:
- Ease of Use: Rackspace offers a user-friendly interface, making onboarding simpler for new users who might be intimidated by the intricate AWS dashboard.
- Support: Unlike AWS, Rackspace provides a more personal touch with 24/7 assistance that directly engages with users, helping them overcome challenges in real-time.
- Pricing: While AWS has a complex pricing model that can lead to unexpected costs, Rackspace generally provides clearer, more predictable pricing structures.
Rackspace vs. Google Cloud
Google Cloud is known for its effective performance, especially in big data and analytics. One of its strongest suits is machine learning capabilities. However, when comparing it to Rackspace, several distinctions come into play. Rackspace excels with its customized solutions tailored towards unique business needs, while Google Cloud often emphasizes its technology's inherent scalability and performance.
Important aspects to consider include:
- Support Structure: While Google's support can sometimes be lacking in responsiveness, Rackspace's managed hosting solutions ensure proactive support.
- Focus Areas: Rackspace offers strong compliance and security standards, an area where Google has faced scrutiny.
- Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Rackspace typically outshines Google Cloud with its stringent SLAs, providing assurances that businesses can rely on.
Rackspace vs. Microsoft Azure
Microsoft Azure, like AWS, has a wide range of services, targeting a variety of enterprise-level needs. But when it comes to usability and support, Rackspace usually offers an edge. Azure's integration with other Microsoft products is its strong suit, steering businesses that rely heavily on the Windows ecosystem toward Azure. However, users also report that Azure's complexities can hinder the onboarding process, adding stress to migration projects.
Key comparisons include:
- Complexity vs. Simplicity: Rackspace promotes simplicity and clarity, whereas Azure's suite can lead to confusion due to its expansive offerings.
- Customization: With Rackspace, businesses can lean on a robust managed services approach that accommodates various bespoke requirements, while Azure tends to push standardized solutions.
- Cost Considerations: Azure's costs can add up quickly, especially when adding features or services that weren’t part of the original plan. Rackspace’s pricing is often more linear and predictable, reducing unexpected expenses.
In summary, while each cloud hosting provider—be it AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure—has its strengths, Rackspace caters more effectively to organizations looking for tailored support and guidance. Being aware of these differences can help users make informed decisions that align with their specific needs.
Use Cases for Rackspace Cloud Hosting
In today’s fast-paced digital world, the ability to adapt and scale is a vital asset for both individuals and businesses. Rackspace Cloud Hosting stands as a versatile solution, catering to a myriad of use cases. It’s not just about having data on the cloud; it’s about leveraging that cloud to achieve tangible results. With its robust infrastructure and comprehensive support services, Rackspace empowers users to implement cloud solutions effectively.
E-Commerce Applications
E-commerce has surged in popularity, and for a good reason. When venturing into online retail, the choice of cloud hosting can make or break the experience for both you and your customers. Rackspace provides a reliable platform ideal for e-commerce applications.
Benefits include:
- Reliability: E-commerce platforms need to be up and running, especially during peak shopping times. Rackspace's data centers are built to ensure uptime and quick recovery, reducing the risk of sales losses.
- Scalability: High traffic spikes can occur during sales events or holiday seasons. Rackspace allows businesses to scale their resources seamlessly, ensuring they can handle increased website demands without breaking a sweat.
- Security: With sensitive customer data at stake, security is paramount. Rackspace provides advanced security measures, including compliance with PCI DSS, ensuring customer trust.
Overall, businesses adopting Rackspace for their e-commerce operations find themselves equipped to offer seamless shopping experiences, from browsing to checkout.
Web Applications
Developing and hosting web applications is a dynamic task, often requiring flexibility and access to robust resources. Rackspace’s cloud offerings shine in this area.
Consider the following aspects:
- Development Flexibility: Rackspace supports a variety of programming languages and frameworks, catering to developers' preferences. Whether it’s Node.js, Python, or Ruby on Rails, they have the tools to ensure your projects can thrive.
- Performance Optimization: With options for load balancing and content delivery networks, web applications hosted on Rackspace benefit from enhanced speed and reliability. This can translate into better user engagement and retention.
- Integration Capabilities: Leveraging APIs and other third-party services is seamless with Rackspace, facilitating the development of complex applications.
In essence, Rackspace opens a treasure trove of capabilities for developers looking to create and manage impactful web applications.
Big Data and Analytics
In the age of big data, companies are struggling with the sheer volume and complexity of data handling. This is where Rackspace can step in. Utilizing their cloud hosting can make managing and analyzing data much more manageable.
Here's how it shines:
- Data Processing Power: Rackspace provides powerful servers and high-performance storage to handle large datasets effectively. This makes it ideal for organizations needing quick insights from their data.
- Analytics Tools: Integration with various analytics platforms such as Apache Hadoop or Spark allows companies to run complex queries on their data without costly delays.
- Cost Management: With Rackspace, businesses can start with smaller resources and scale as their data needs grow, ensuring that they only pay for what they use.


Hence, for firms that rely on data to drive decision-making, Rackspace offers a compelling solution tailored to modern data challenges.
Pricing Structure of Rackspace Cloud Hosting
Understanding the pricing structure of Rackspace Cloud Hosting is crucial for anyone considering this service. It shapes your budget, impacts your choices, and can even affect the overall success of your projects. As with many cloud solutions, pricing isn't just about the numbers. It’s about understanding the value received for your investment, how various costs can fluctuate depending on usage, and the implications these have for your business or personal projects.
Rate structures in cloud hosting can feel like a rabbit hole, but for Rackspace, it’s fairly straightforward. The pricing model focuses on several factors including resource allocation, service level agreements, and additional features. This breakdown makes it easier for customers to predict costs, but can still leave one scratching their head if they aren’t prepared.
Subscription Models
Rackspace offers various subscription models, each designed to cater to different needs and usage patterns. Understanding these models can significantly influence how one budgets for services.
- Pay-As-You-Go: This flexible option allows users to pay only for the resources they actually use. Ideal for startups or businesses with fluctuating demands, this model can help manage costs effectively.
- Reserved Instances: This model enables users to reserve a certain capacity for a longer period, typically at a lower rate. It's beneficial for businesses with predictable workloads who want to save over time.
- Monthly Plans: Regular monthly payments simplify budgeting. These may come with package deals that bundle resources together, making it easier to estimate expenses.
- Enterprise Solutions: For larger organizations, bespoke plans can be negotiated to suit specific requirements and anticipated growth trajectories.
Each of these models has its own merit; understanding how they align with your immediate and future needs will help in making informed decisions.
Cost Analysis
Performing a cost analysis is monumental in ensuring that you are maximizing the value derived from Rackspace. This doesn’t merely encompass listing the service prices but involves a deeper look into what those costs mean for your operational efficiency.
When analyzing cost, consider:
- Resource Allocation: Determine what resources you need upfront. Are you looking for storage, compute capacity, or both? Having a clear picture helps streamline expenses.
- Scalability Costs: Rackspace excels in scalability, but scaling up can come at a price. Learn about potential additional charges that might come with increasing your resource usage.
- Support Levels: Different subscription models often provide varying levels of support. Make sure to factor this into your overall costs, considering how much support you truly need and the potential impact on your budgets.
- Long-Term Forecasting: The cloud industry is always in flux, but look beyond immediate costs and consider your projected needs in the years to come. Cost changes might be influenced by evolving technology and market competition.
- Discounts and Promotions: Always inquire about discounts, especially if you're planning a significant commitment to Rackspace resources. Sometimes, larger contracts come with savings that might not be immediately obvious.
"Understanding the pricing of your cloud solutions isn’t just a task – it’s a journey to ensure value, efficiency, and sustainability in your business model."
Taking these factors into consideration can enlighten decision-making and influence effective spending within the powerful ecosystem that Rackspace provides. Embracing a holistic view of pricing not only readies users for financial commitments but fosters a more strategic mindset concerning cloud hosting.
Challenges and Limitations
Understanding the challenges and limitations associated with Rackspace Cloud Hosting is vital for users looking to make informed decisions. While Rackspace provides a range of impressive features and serves many businesses successfully, there are elements that require careful consideration. Recognizing potential bottlenecks or drawbacks not only helps in preparing for possible hurdles but also empowers users to develop strategies to mitigate these issues. Ultimately, being aware of these challenges sets realistic expectations and drives effective planning, especially for organizations relying heavily on cloud systems.
Potential Downtime Issues
One of the primary concerns regarding cloud hosting, including Rackspace, is the potential for downtime. No service is infallible, and unexpected outages can occur due to a variety of reasons ranging from hardware failures to network issues. While Rackspace aims for high uptime rates, interruptions can still happen, and understanding this risk is crucial for business continuity.
Some points to consider:
- Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Rackspace offers SLAs that guarantee a certain level of uptime. However, it is important to read the fine print, as certain conditions may apply. Knowing what someone is entitled to under their service agreement can help manage expectations.
- Impact Assessment: Downtime can lead to significant financial losses, especially for e-commerce platforms and mission-critical applications. Proper risk assessment and contingency planning can lessen the blow if outages occur.
- Monitoring Tools: Utilizing monitoring systems increases awareness of potential issues before they escalate, helping organizations react quickly to minimize disruptions.
"Preparedness is the key to effective response; suffering can be mitigated if organizations plan for the unexpected."
Learning Curve for New Users
The learning curve associated with Rackspace Cloud Hosting is another factor that cannot be overlooked. While the platform is powerful, it can be somewhat overwhelming for those who may be new to cloud technology or unfamiliar with Rackspace's specific offerings.
Here are some aspects to keep in mind:
- Interface Familiarity: Users might find the user interface isn’t as intuitive as they hope, especially if they come from other hosting environments. This can lead to frustration and potential misconfigurations.
- Resource Availability: While Rackspace offers documentation and resources, newcomers may struggle to find the right information quickly. Taking time to navigate through available resources can dramatically improve the understanding of the platform.
- Training Programs: Engaging with training programs or tutorials can help smoothen transition into the system. Rackspace often provides such opportunities, but users need to actively seek them out to maximize their effectiveness.
The Future of Rackspace Cloud Hosting
As the cloud computing landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to consider the future trajectory of Rackspace Cloud Hosting. Its ongoing development and adaptation to changing technologies and market demands play a pivotal role in how users perceive and utilize its services. For software developers, IT professionals, and students, an understanding of these upcoming advancements in Rackspace can provide insight into its potential benefits and important considerations.
Emerging Technologies
In this section, we dive into the cutting-edge technologies on the horizon that could shape the future of Rackspace Cloud Hosting. Following trends like AI integration, edge computing, and enhanced automation, Rackspace is primed to offer innovative solutions that align with modern business needs.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): With AI becoming increasingly vital, Rackspace is focusing on integrating intelligent solutions that can optimize server management and improve user experiences. For example, leveraging AI can help predict resource demands, enabling proactive scaling of services, ultimately ensuring smooth operations.
- Edge Computing: As the Internet of Things (IoT) expands, edge computing is gaining traction. This technology allows data processing to occur closer to where it is generated, diminishing latency and improving response times. It’s likely that Rackspace will incorporate edge capabilities, providing customers with tools to deploy applications right at the data source.
"The cloud’s ability to adapt to emerging technologies is a crucial factor for its growth."
- Containerization and Serverless Architectures: Stack technologies like Kubernetes have become essential for deploying applications efficiently. Rackspace might enhance its offerings to support containerization and serverless computing models, allowing developers to run applications without worrying about the underlying infrastructure. This transformation helps streamline workflows and reduces maintenance burdens on teams.
Market Trends
To stay competitive, Rackspace Cloud Hosting will need to keep a sharp eye on prevailing market trends. This enables the platform to anticipate users' needs and adapt accordingly. Consider the following aspects influencing the future landscape:
- Increased Demand for Hybrid Cloud Solutions: Organizations increasingly prefer hybrid configurations that blend on-premises resources with cloud capabilities. Rackspace’s strategic focus on optimizing hybrid cloud solutions is essential to cater to these customers, offering seamless integration and flexible migration paths.
- Emphasis on Compliance and Governance: Regulations surrounding data privacy and security are intensifying. Rackspace may respond by enhancing security features and compliance measures, ensuring transparent adherence to industry standards. This reassures clients that their sensitive information is in good hands.
- Growing Importance of Sustainability: Companies today are under pressure to reduce their carbon footprints. As part of its future plans, Rackspace could delve into sustainable cloud solutions, committing to renewable energy and carbon-neutral data centers. This shift not only enhances Rackspace's market appeal but aligns with a broader global movement toward sustainability.
Each of these elements is vital, not only in defining Rackspace’s future but also in shaping the cloud landscape as a whole. The ability to foresee these changes and adapt accordingly will determine how effective Rackspace will be in meeting user needs and staying ahead of the curve.