Hot-aisle containment typically requires an effective hot-air return strategy, often using ceiling plenums, ducting, or fan wall systems. This approach usually benefits from sufficient ceiling heights. 

Cold-aisle containment delivers cold air directly into a contained aisle, often supported by raised floors or row-based cooling systems. Raised floors are common but not mandatory. 

Row-based cooling systems provide flexibility, as they can support either hot- or cold-aisle configurations without relying heavily on building infrastructure.