Data center security as a key priority for providers
Commercial data center facilities are increasing with new facilities being built on a yearly basis. These facilities offer valuable services to companies with large data management needs. They provide space which can be either floor or server space for data management purposes. This service best matches the needs of large to mega sized companies. Medium sized companies, depending on the amount of data they deal with in the business processes, can also benefit from these services. They are provided at monthly subscription fees which are effectively lower than the cost of installation of your own facility. This is as a result of the applicable economies of scale.
Security features that are built into the system and its facilities have been one of the biggest concerns regarding data center solutions. As a matter of fact, more businesses require some sort of assurance about the security provided within the data center before they can commit to a contract for service. This has led to the creation of strict clauses within service level agreements that are focused on the security service provision within the overall service. Still, a majority of businesses are clueless as to the features that make up secure data centers.
- First, physical security within the data center facility needs to be adequate and well designed. This means that the facility should have physical security that is designed based on need and authorization. Only authorized personnel, ideally those belonging to the service provider, should be allowed to access the facility. Clients of the service provider who use the facility can have their personnel granted access when necessary. This is usually provided to enable the personnel to undertake upgrades and maintenance which cannot be done remotely. The physical security is usually guaranteed by the use of authorization measures which control access.
- Second, the network through which the facility provides access must be secured. This means that the transmission of data through the internet should be secured. This is normally done using TCP/IP protocols which create end to end security. The entire concept of data center solutions is based on the creation of a virtual service network. This virtual layer which abstracts the physical resources available in a virtual form must also be protected.

Secure data centers are the result of proper planning and investment on the part of the provider. Furthermore, vigilance and continuous adaptation provide for the best security.
Comments