Data Center Security Monitoring Systems

Protecting your data is always a critical concern, and data center security monitoring helps protect servers and other critical IT equipment by detecting unauthorized physical access. Most data center managers implement multiple measures to protect their facilities, but physical security can still be compromised if an unauthorized person enters a server room or data center, particularly after hours.

Servers can contain valuable business and proprietary information, making physical access to data center equipment an important security concern. Whether access results from unauthorized entry, forced entry or an employee accidentally entering a restricted area, continuous monitoring can help personnel identify potential security incidents quickly.

What Is Data Center Security Monitoring?

Data center security monitoring uses sensors and monitoring equipment to detect physical access and activity around server rooms, equipment rooms and individual server cabinets. The system can notify designated personnel when doors are opened or motion is detected, providing greater visibility into activity around critical IT infrastructure.

Sensaphone’s IMS data center security monitoring systems can perform physical security functions. For example, you can add sensors to the entrance doors and the doors to the individual server cabinets. To avoid receiving constant alerts on busy days, you can configure the monitoring system to alert you only after hours and on weekends.

How Can Data Center Security Monitoring Detect Unauthorized Access?

Door and window sensors can detect when an entry point or server cabinet is opened. The Sensaphone IMS system can then provide an alert based on the monitoring parameters you establish.

To avoid receiving constant alerts during normal business hours, you can configure the monitoring system to alert you only after hours and on weekends. This allows facilities and IT personnel to focus on access that occurs when server rooms and equipment areas are expected to be unoccupied.

Monitor Data Center Activity With Motion Sensors and Cameras

You can also install passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors inside and outside equipment rooms. 

PIR sensors detect motion in monitored areas and can provide another layer of physical security monitoring beyond door and cabinet sensors.

The IMS system can also interface with IP cameras, giving personnel visual information about conditions and activity within the data center environment. Combining door sensors, motion detection and cameras provides multiple ways to monitor physical access to critical equipment.

Why Is 24/7 Data Center Security Monitoring Important?

Unauthorized access can occur when IT or facilities personnel aren't on site to see it. Continuous data center security monitoring provides visibility into physical access around the clock and can notify designated personnel when monitored activity occurs.

Remote monitoring is particularly valuable after hours and on weekends, when an open door or unexpected movement may require immediate attention. Early notification allows personnel to investigate the situation and respond before unauthorized physical access threatens critical servers or other equipment.

Suggested Products for Data Center Security Monitoring

Sensaphone IMS-1000
Sensaphone IMS-4000
Sensaphone IMS Magnetic Reed Door and Window Switch
Sensaphone IMS Infrared Motion Detection Sensor
Sensaphone IMS IP Camera