Data security is one of the top concerns any business needs to deal with, regardless of industry, size or scope. Without high-quality data center security in place, firms could be breaking federal and state laws, putting their customers at risk and hindering their own success rates. However, developing a top quality strategy for security compliance can be tricky, and companies need to ensure several factors are in place to see success.
When it comes down to it, data protection is about limiting access to information, keeping unauthorized persons out while ensuring that access is easy for legitimate personnel. One of the most used strategies to accomplish this is encryption, but encrypted data is still steal-able, and worst yet, slows down processes so that businesses have to take extra time to actually use that information when it is needed. A better way to fully protect data is to secure it at the source, in the server itself.
The key to accomplishing high-quality server rack security is access control. Implementing a successful access control strategy will require several steps, and firms will need to accomplish them in order to ensure their solution meets operational, compliance and reputation needs.
Internal audit
The first thing any business should do when reassess its data security is perform a full audit of its data needs and uses. By having a comprehensive understanding of current operations, an enterprise will know full well how to optimize the flow of information, and in turn know what not to do to slow it down when it comes to security. An analysis of how security solutions will impact business and productivity will assist in selecting the best option, while detecting key weaknesses that are already present in a firm’s security.
Visualize demand
The next step is to take the type to predict ever use scenario the company may encounter. While current operations are key, it is possible that changes may be necessary in the immediate future to keep up with industry demands, company goals or evolutions in technology. Firms need to visualize their data use one, five and even 10 years down the road to ensure the solutions they are investing in will be compatible and scalable.
Ensure the servers meet needs
Another key piece of the puzzle is to upgrade the actual data center technology if needed. For businesses to implement an extensive security solution, then rip out have their servers a year later to switch to a new system could create chaos an a significant potential increase in cost. If server-level technology upgrades will be necessary in the near future a firm might want to consider performing these changes first. However, depending on the data center security solutions selected, this may not be an issue.
Accessibility
The next consideration is how often servers actually need to be physically accessed. If a firm is going to be in and out of the server room all day – server rack security may not be the best choice because it will slow down workflow. Placing security measures at the building level may be more appropriate in these instances. However, it is still important to consider the security demands of the server cabinet. Dual-level protection may also be necessary for some businesses.
Biometrics
Finally, a business needs to select the security solution that meets its needs. Many companies may find that the best option for them is biometric technology. Biometrics provide critical protection at building access, or the server itself, eliminating risk a whatever level a firm needs. This allows for scalability, optimal protection over time and key support of accessibility, as ease of access will never be an issue for authorized parties.