Data Center Security

By Saleh Tousi

Data security is a major concern for people using colocation. After all, your precious data is located in a remote facility that you have no control over. Fortunately, data centers understand your concerns and have built in security features to ensure your data is safe and sound. Depending on the provider there will be different security features. But you can expect to see some or all of these features at your colocation facility depending on size and client needs:

Security Guard. Many facilities have onsite security guards monitoring the site 24-hours a day. The security guard is responsible for verifying user's identities and making sure they are authorized to enter the facility. They also make sure the site is secure throughout the day and night and provide an immediate response to any potential problems.

Uninterruptable Power Supply. In the event of a power-outage, this power supply will act as a back-up to your servers. With this feature you won't lose your data or service because of power-outages.

Climate Control. This element of security is crucial to your servers. If the room is too hot, your servers could over-heat. If it's too cold, they won't work properly. If the room is too damp, it could cause condensation on the machines and if it's too dry, it could cause problems with static. All of these factors need to be taken into account. Colocation facilities have climate controlled rooms that are set to industry specified standards for temperature and humidity to keep your machines safe and running properly.

Central Back-up Recovery System. In the event that something does go wrong with the server, this feature provides an extra copy of your data. It's not stored in only one place. Having multiple copies of your data will help protect it and ensure that it doesn't get lost or erased. Additionally many facilities have back-up systems at another location, providing additional security for your data.

Security Cameras. These on-site cameras monitor each row of servers as well as the exits and entrances. If there's a break-in or damage to one of the servers, the facility will be able to identify who is responsible. Cameras are also useful in fire detection as you can see where the fire is coming from in order to better prevent it from spreading.

Fire Control. Data centers are equipped with many redundancies when it comes to fire protection. Early detection smoke alarms are installed in many facilities as well as heat detectors. Walls and floors are made from fire-resistant materials and fire doors prevent the spread of fires to other parts of the facility.

For more information on colocation services, visit Vancouver Colocation, one of the leading colocation providers for small to medium sized businesses in Western Canada.