Securing data centers against fire: a strategic imperative

The security of your IS should not be limited to software protection, but also to the physical security of this equipment. It is precisely on this point that the notion of fire is a risk to be taken into account. The numerous incidents which have affected various giants of the sector are the perfect illustration of this and have impacted the activities of several million professionals, some of whom have lost all their data and information systems.

Rethink physical site security

Of course, many data centers already benefit from devices allowing them to minimize the risks that could arise: access control, redundant energy supply, etc. However, one subject often remains undervalued: that of fires. On this point, from the start of a fire, the consequences are often dramatic and entire buildings can be ravaged by flames. Traditional reactions and systems are unfortunately geared towards an a posteriori approach and not towards upstream detection.

Anticipate events to limit risks

Anticipating fires is therefore a key element to take into consideration. Datacenters must integrate this point into their governance to best protect their customers. The notion of predictability is strategic. On this point, analyzing weak signals at the electrical cabinets and equipment is fundamental. In this sense, few integrated responses are offered by manufacturers. The use of specific sensors dedicated to this monitoring is then required. These sensors will provide access to alerts to avoid fires by analyzing electrical devices with a proactive and preventive approach.

Do not entrust your IT assets to just any data center

Rethinking your security to protect against fires is therefore a must have for all accommodation professionals. It is up to them to be on constant watch to prevent incidents from occurring and to be able to anticipate them. In this sense, IoT and sensors will be able to provide precise responses and solid guarantees to fight fires.

Tribune by Frédéric BONNARD, President of HDSN (LinkedIn).