[benedikt]

you’re not all that far off

* you’d have to sign up with a colo provider first. since data centers in physical buildings, this just depends on where you live

* when you sign up with them they provide you with info like ip addresses or how to connect to their network (they might have dhcp, or you might have to configure static ips). usually there is a initial setup fee, around 1 month of rent.

* if you just rent a a 1U space you usually can get physical access to it while accompanied by someone working for the data center. usually this is during business hours, but each data center will have its own rules. if you rent larger units, such as a full rack (42U) or half a rack you usually get a key card and can access it 24/7 (this usually involves a phone call for them to remotely open a lock)