Data Center Security: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on Nov 3, 2024 in Technology

Data Center Security

Fire Safety

Dampers

Dampers at air vents and AC outputs shut down manually or automatically during fires, preventing the spread of fire, smoke, and fumes.

Fire Detectors

  • Optical: Photoelectric technology generates a light beam. Smoke entering the detector obscures the beam, triggering the alarm.
  • Ionic: Detect combustion particles. Smoke reduces air ionization, interrupting the current between electrodes and activating the alarm.
  • Thermal: Trigger an alarm upon sudden temperature changes or exceeding a preset threshold.
  • Smoke Extraction: Continuously draw air through ducts. An alarm triggers if airflow deviates from a predetermined pattern.

Fire Extinguishers

  • Type A: For solid combustibles like wood, paper, or plastic.
  • Type B: For flammable liquids like fats, oils, gasoline, and alcohol.
  • Type C: For flammable gases like butane, natural gas, and propane.
  • Type D: For combustible metals like sodium, magnesium, or potassium.
  • Electrocution Risk: For fires involving electrical equipment.

Mixed Fire Detection and Suppression Systems

Automatic systems activate extinguishing measures upon fire detection.

Physical Security

Redundancy

  • Multiple power connections from different providers.
  • Fire detection and suppression systems.
  • Dual fiber optic cabling.
  • Redundant air conditioning.
  • Multiple internet service providers.
  • Backup data center.

Access Control

  • 24/7 security guards.
  • Perimeter and interior access control.
  • License plate recognition cameras.
  • CCTV surveillance.
  • Armored doors in critical areas.
  • Biometric systems.
  • Controlled personnel and mail access.

Structure

  • High load-bearing capacity floors.
  • Raised floors to mitigate electrical and flooding risks.
  • Seismic reinforcement in earthquake-prone areas.
  • Fireproof and dust-resistant walls.
  • Insulated walls and windows.
  • Secure cold chamber for servers.

Access Control Systems

Types

  • Dependent: Require connection to a management computer.
  • Autonomous: Self-managed or managed through an attached device. Convertible systems can connect to a control computer.

Personnel Monitoring and Control

Surveillance can be handled by internal staff, private security, or a hybrid approach. The Ministry of Interior’s July 2009 report clarifies the roles of security personnel.

Keypads

Basic keypads require a shared password for entry. Advanced keypads allow personalized passwords for each user.

Cards

  • Proximity Cards: Resistant to sunlight and magnetic fields. Identification occurs wirelessly.
  • Magnetic Stripe Cards: Less common due to wear and tear.
  • Barcode Cards: Also less common due to susceptibility to scratches.

Card Utilities

  • Anti-passback by Area: Restricts access to specific areas.
  • Anti-passback by Time: Restricts access during specific times.
  • Anti-passback Access: Prevents simultaneous use of the same card.
  • Expiry Date: Deactivates the card after a set date and time.

Key Contact (Email)

Durable electronic chips encased in stainless steel and mounted on plastic. Used by touching the reader on the door.