Data center security secures and protects a data center’s functions and resources. Encompassing physical and technological measures, a data center is protected from internal and external threats.

A comprehensive security plan covers every aspect of a data center. This includes the networks, power systems, servers of a data center, along with the processes and data it supports. In addition, various security threats need to be addressed as data centers are tempting targets for crime.

Importance of Data Center Security

A data center is the foundation of the business it serves, whether it is utilized for applications, computing, disaster recovery, or storage. Moreover, an organization’s business-critical applications and sensitive data represents opportunities for cybercriminals and other threat actors.

A data center is an integral component of a company’s infrastructure. A data center’s assets allow a company to restore its functions after a natural or manmade disaster, ensuring business continuity. Strong data center security allows company owners to focus on the growth, rather than worry about the condition of their digital assets.

Securing a Data Center

Made up of networking and computational equipment, a data center processes and stores data for an organization at a central location. In order to maintain security, a company is required to deploy both physical and virtual systems intended for the protection of its data center. Along with securing computational assets, cybersecurity measures must be employed for the prevention of malware attacks and other threats that can result in a damaging data breach.

Physical Security

Selecting the proper location should be the top goal when constructing a data center. Particular areas must not be considered due to the inherent safety and security risks the locations present. Below is a list of such locations.

• Areas in the vicinity of earthquake fault lines
• Areas prone to flooding
• Areas vulnerable to seasonal wildfires
• Landing paths of airplanes
• Regions likely to be struck by tornadoes
• Regions where hurricanes commonly occur
• Sites near chemical facilities

Aside from constructing your facility above a flood plain, utilizing thick walls of concrete will provide an additional layer of physical security. By building concrete walls that are at least one foot in thickness, a data center can be better protected from natural disasters or manmade explosions.

Part 2 will cover Security Technology, Virtual Security, and MFA.

Alpha Business Support

Choosing an expert computer technology-support provider is an important decision for your business. Alpha has been a trusted partner of many companies in the Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis areas since 1990. For affordable client-focused network consulting services and solutions, please call Alpha today at (410) 295-9500.