The security of the data center is critical. Data centers not only contain valuable computer hardware, but the data in the machines is usually worth exponentially more than the 10s or 100s of millions of dollars that the equipment costs. Access should be restricted to only authorized and trained personnel. Several levels of barriers should be in place. The use of "traps" (a space between two doors) is a good idea for security as well as preventing the infiltration of particulate matter. People enter the exterior door and the interior door cannot be opened until the exterior door is closed. The data center should be positioned so that it does not use an exterior wall. Avoid exterior windows in your data center. If your data center does use an exterior wall, place barriers on the outside of the wall to slow down vehicles that might try to smash through. (This might sound ridiculous, but it has happened .) Figure 11-2. Trap Between the Data Center and Outside Area
For many corporations, their information is their business. If it sounds like you are fortifying this thing to be a mini Fort Knox, you are on the right path . Consider the following:
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