Direct liquid cooling (DLC) adoption in data centers remains gradual, with most operators still relying on traditional air cooling methods for their IT equipment. However, this may shift in the future as server rack densitites increase and the cost of maintaining air cooling systems becomes unsustainable. Results from the Uptime Institute Cooling Systems Survey 2025 reveal that high rack densities remain the top driver for utilizing DLC with environmental sustainability another driving factor for adoption. Operators are most likely to assess the viability of a liquid cooling system based on how readily it integrates into existing infrastructure.
Apply for a four-week evaluation of Uptime Intelligence; the leading source of research, insight and data-driven analysis focused on digital infrastructure.
Already have access? Log in here