DatA Centre Security

Physical security is as important as cyber security

The physical perimeter security of a data centre is in many way similar to the systems and protocols employed by data centres to maintain security over their equipment and IT assets; to the extent that even some of the terminology used is common across both.

The specific requirements for data centre perimeter security include:

  • The protection of the external perimeter against scaling over, burrowing under or cutting through
  • Securing and controlling entrances for authorised staff, visitors, supply of goods, power, services and communications
  • Prevention of vehicle borne attack (HVM)
  • Securing car parking and protecting the exterior of the data hall
  • Protecting fuel storage, the HV substation, standby generators and HVAC systems - an example can be found in the video.
  • Securing and controlling access to buildings
  • Integrating lighting, surveillance and perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDS)
  • Localising security devices to operate independent of data centre system infrastructure
  • Mitigating noise propagation from the site
  • Blending into the surrounding environment
  • Kao Data Centre

    Jacksons installed 172 metres of Securi Mesh Plus SR2, polyester powder coated green, along with three matching bi-folding speed gates and three 4 metre wide rising arm barriers  to control access and egress to the site. Watch the video to find out more.

    Example Data Centre Security Strategy

    Data centre

    Over the past ten years we have invested heavily in the R&D, testing, manufacture and certification of a variety of novel and effective perimeter fencing and gate systems which offer ‘smarter’ solutions than the generic mesh or palisade security systems widely available. The resulting products from our high security portfolio offer LPS 1175 certified ratings from A1 through to G1, approved for UK Government Use fencing and gates up to the highest level, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation protection and National Offender Management Service (NOMS) approved perimeter intrusion detection systems – most of which additionally meet with ‘Police Preferred Specification’ through Secured by Design.

    These products have already been employed in some of the most sensitive and secure establishments in the UK and export markets including an ever increasing number of security aware data centres; providing them with perimeter security solutions which work effectively and reliably 24/7, 365 days a year with the minimum of maintenance and a long service life.

    For more information on perimeter security, read our whitepaper on data centre security which is free to download and highlights key areas to consider in achieving a secure data centre.

    Alternatively, read our selection of case studies to see the various perimeter security solutions we have deployed for data centres around the UK.

    Over 75 years of experience

    Our reputation providing complete security solutions for data centres has awarded us further contracts with many data centres and other high security CNI sites across the UK. Read about some of the projects we completed below, plus get your copy of our free guide for securing CNI and utilities.

    Creating a secure perimeter around a data centre

    The main priority for the data centre was to achieve a high level ring of security around the premises while at the same time shielding the site to minimise observation of daily activity.

    Protecting critical national infrastructure and utilities

    Data centres are classed as Critical National Infrastructure, download our complimentary guide as a starting point here.

    Balancing security and aesthetics for Kao data centre

    To secure Kao Data's state-of-the-art data centre and control access, we installed 172 metres of LPCB approved security rated fencing and barriers.

    High security perimeter solution for urban data centre

    Protecting the Milton Keynes data centre from physical attack was equally important as safeguarding the facility from a data breach.

    LPS 1175 Issue 8 Explained

    In 2019, a new standard to LPS 1175 security ratings was introduced, which allows specifiers and site planners to more closely identify the security risks associated with their site by analysing more variables. Issue 8 replaces Issue 7 with this new fluid approach. We explain the basics here.

    Read the guide
    Book a CPD

    Data centres require a delicate mix of security, privacy, aesthetics and noise reduction. With the responsibility to provide protection for highly sensitive information, it's important to suggest a suitable answer at the first opportunity. Our CPD covers all aspects of perimeter security to equip you with the right tools for specifying the right solution.

    Book a CPD

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