Protecting your Data Center from Physical Breaches

Your data center is the hub of important data that may include personal client details, confidential information, business-critical and sensitive financial documents, and so on. It is, therefore, no surprise that a data center is always under threat – from both physical and remote breaches. Whether your data center houses your own organization’s data and network equipment or that of organizations that have entrusted them to you, a potential security breach will have extremely serious consequences.

Here are a few steps you can take to enhance the physical security of your data center.

Have a clear understanding of your threats

Technology gets more advanced and criminals get smarter by the day. It is, therefore, very important to know what you are up against. Keep yourself aware of new “trends” in attacks and constantly educate yourself on how to tackle them.

More importantly, know what you are trying to protect and what you are trying to prevent. Remember that, while determined attacks do take place, a number of security breaches also occur merely as crimes of convenience or opportunity.

Man your data center round the clock

One of the most important ways to prevent crimes of opportunity is by placing guards within the data center premises, 24×7. Make them responsible for monitoring activities around the center and make sure that they are aware of the importance of their role.

Another way to add an additional layer of security is by never allowing a single employee or client to open and operate systems without another person in the room. Always require two keycards to be used to access rooms with systems carrying critical data.

Use surveillance cameras for remote monitoring

In addition to 24×7 manned security, it is also essential to use surveillance cameras inside and outside the data center premises. Put up visible signboards announcing the presence of cameras; this itself can act as a deterrent.

Use a system that will allow you to watch the camera footage from anywhere using your mobile phone – and make sure your employees are aware of this. This will go a long way in preventing insider attacks.

Separate your primary data and backup data

Ideally, all data must have a backup copy. The servers housing the primary data and the ones with the backup data must never be at the same site.

If that is not possible, at least ensure that your primary and backup data are not accessible on the same network. Consider a cloud backup if required but, preferably, maintain a copy in a disaster recovery center with an air gap between them.

Secure your server racks

The most important level of security against a physical breach is at the server rack level. Opt for enclosed server racks and cabinets as opposed to open ones.

Purchase racks that come with in-built locks or, if you already have racks in place, set up a smart lock system for each server rack. Such server rack lock systems come with card-based or biometric authentication, eliminating anonymous access. This not only enhances security but also improves accountability.

At Hardy Racks, our SmartLock systems guarantee the highest level of physical security and are easily deployable, cost-efficient, and compatible with a variety of server racks. For a free demo, get in touch with us today!