Quality data center security cages keep your information from running wild. While it’s true that your servers won’t simply up and walk away, security cages can prevent a serious security breach. The last thing your company wants is private consumer or proprietary information running freely along the information superhighway. For that reason, you’ll want to choose quality security cages when choosing a location for your servers.
Solid Cage Construction
A security cage made out of twisty ties wouldn’t work very well. Not all metals are equal, which is why your security cage construction matters. Wirecrafters, a prominent cage manufacturer describes its server cage construction as “wire mesh partition panels made from 10 gauge wire, woven into a 2″ x 1″ rectangular mesh design. This wire mesh is then framed in a 1 1/4″ x 1 1/4″ x 1/8″ hot rolled angle frame.”
These partition panels may have a welded stiffener bar supporting the angle and frame. They’ll also be accompanied by a 14 gauge steel post tube and be directly bolted to the post. Welded base plates prevent attachments from slipping loose and allowing entrance, especially when using provided anchors and an additional baseplate as needed. In addition, quality data center security cages will have all of the hardware attachments on the inside of the cage.
Cages Still Need Air
The primary reason for the focus on fine metal cages is air circulation and temperature. There is a science behind data-center cooling design. In short, servers generate heat, and air moves this heat away from the units. A flat-paneled or poorly designed security cage has the potential to inhibit ventilation or heat discharge and lead to equipment damage. While this temperature management can be further regulated by proper climate control, there is no substitute for moving air among data centers.
Cages Must Meet Space Requirements
Cages also need to provide enough space to safely house your equipment. You’ll want to judge your cage and choice of a rack, shelf, cabinet, or suite based on a few factors. What is the equipment set you need to colocate? Are there minimum space requirements based on the manufacturer, your provider, or any legal or regulatory requirements? A standard unit (U) will provide about 19 inches of width and about 36 inches of depth, with a height of just under 2 inches.
Make sure the space available in your cages matches up to the needed U’s in your server requirements. If you have non-standard sized equipment, you’ll want to make sure your provider can accommodate these needs.
Cages Alone Won’t Keep You Safe
While security cages are an excellent beginning to keeping your servers and data safe, a cage alone won’t keep you protected. Make sure your cages are located in a secure building and supported by security staff. Choose a location that has generator backups, maintenance support, and is free from flooding and weather concerns. Research both onsite and server colocation to increase your security and other data safety options. Consider security as a service, to provide timely and relevant protections. Also learn more about Colocation Pricing here, with our robust guide to help you along the way.
Choose strong wire with grids small enough to deter tampering, yet large enough to provide adequate ventilation. Make sure your panels combine for a secure fit too. Pair your security cages with other precautions, such as safe storage to maximize your security. Provide your data with the same level of care and concern you would your physical valuables. Contact one of our advisers today to learn more about using data center security cages to create a secure storage area.
