Power distribution unit
![A 10-outlet rack-mount PDU without built-in surge protection, connected to a UPS (bottom unit on right)](/Images/godic/202502/04/APC_10-outlet_rackmount_19-inch_PDU1943.jpg")
![Cabinet PDU with access doors open](/Images/godic/202502/04/UPS_PDU_Open1943.jpg")
A power distribution unit (PDU) or mains distribution unit (MDU) is a device fitted with multiple outputs designed to distribute electric power, especially to racks of computers and networking equipment located within a data center. Data centers face challenges in power protection and management solutions. This is why many data centers rely on PDU monitoring to improve efficiency, uptime, and growth.