51821 - Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services
In today's digital era, businesses and organizations rely heavily on robust computing infrastructure and seamless data processing services. NAICS code 51821, officially titled Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services, plays a crucial role in categorizing companies at the heart of this technological backbone. Whether you're a government contractor, an IT professional, or a business analyst, understanding this NAICS code is essential for identifying industry segments, compliance, and business opportunities.
What is NAICS Code 51821?
NAICS code 51821 encompasses establishments primarily engaged in providing infrastructure for hosting or data processing services. These services cover a broad range, including:
- Web hosting
- Application hosting
- Data processing services such as transaction processing
- Data storage
This classification helps define companies that facilitate online presence and data management for other businesses and consumers through scalable and secure infrastructure.
Sector Overview: Information
NAICS Code 51821 is classified under the Information sector. This sector groups industries engaged in producing and distributing information and cultural products, providing the means to transmit or distribute these products, or processing data.
Typical Business Activities under NAICS Code 51821
- Web Hosting Services: Provision of space on a server to host websites and related services
- Data Processing and Transaction Processing Services: Managing, processing, and analyzing data for third parties, including financial and retail transactions
- Cloud Infrastructure Providers: Offering cloud computing resources, virtual servers, storage, and networking services
Size Standards for NAICS Code 51821
For small business eligibility and government contracting purposes, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines size standards for NAICS code 51821 as follows:
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Size Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 518210 | Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services | $41.5 million in average annual receipts |
Businesses with annual receipts at or below $41.5 million typically qualify as small businesses within this industry classification.
Examples of Businesses under NAICS 51821
Companies that fall under NAICS code 51821 include, but are not limited to:
- Bluehost: A well-known web hosting services provider
- Rackspace Technology: Managed cloud computing and data processing services
- DigitalOcean: Cloud infrastructure provider offering virtual servers and storage
- Fiserv: Data processing and transaction processing for financial services
- GoDaddy: Web hosting and domain registration company
NAICS Code 51821 Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 51821 |
| Industry Title | Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services |
| Sector | Information |
| Description | Establishments primarily engaged in providing infrastructure for hosting or data processing services, including web and application hosting, transaction processing, and data storage. |
| Typical Business Types | Web hosting services, Data processing, Transaction processing, Cloud infrastructure providers |
| Size Standard | $41.5 million (average annual receipts) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What services are included under NAICS 51821?
NAICS 51821 covers services such as web hosting, application hosting, data processing, transaction processing, and cloud infrastructure provision.
Which sector does NAICS 51821 belong to?
It belongs to the Information sector, which focuses on data production, processing, and transmission.
What is the SBA size standard for NAICS 51821?
The small business size standard for NAICS 51821 is an average annual receipt of $41.5 million or less.
Can government contractors use NAICS 51821 for bidding?
Yes, government contractors offering hosting and data processing services typically use NAICS 51821 when responding to solicitations or registering their business classification.
What are examples of companies under this NAICS code?
Examples include Bluehost, Rackspace Technology, DigitalOcean, Fiserv, and GoDaddy.
Conclusion
NAICS code 51821 is pivotal in categorizing businesses that provide the essential computing infrastructure and data processing services powering the modern internet and business world. Understanding this code, its sector placement, size standards, and typical business activities is vital for companies and professionals engaging in government contracting, market research, or strategic planning within the IT and data services landscape.
Optimize your business visibility and ensure compliance by accurately using NAICS code 51821 when applicable. Stay ahead by aligning your services with this key industry classification.
Keywords: NAICS code 51821, Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, Cloud Infrastructure Providers, SBA size standards, Information sector, transaction processing, web hosting services
