In today’s digital-first world, businesses rely on data centers to keep critical IT systems running around the clock. While cybersecurity often grabs the headlines, physical data center security is equally vital to protect servers, sensitive information, and operational continuity. A well-designed facility combines controlled access, surveillance, secure server cages, and even onsite security personnel to ensure that both equipment and data remain safe from unauthorized access.
Datotel’s St. Louis data center, situated in the historic Globe Building, sets a high standard for physical data center security. With biometric entry, secured elevators, controlled parking, monitored communication conduits, and 24/7 alerts, the facility safeguards client infrastructure while maintaining high availability and operational excellence.
Physical breaches can have severe consequences, including downtime, stolen hardware, or compromised data. therefore, effective physical data center security protects the facility, IT assets, and the people managing them. Core elements of a strong security posture include:
At Datotel, these principles are applied comprehensively to ensure all clients’ systems remain secure.
Only designated individuals can enter the colocation facility. Visitors are admitted only with preapproval, ensuring that every person entering the facility is authorized. Elevators within the building are secured with proximity badge access, limiting access to the data center floors exclusively to approved personnel.
All access points are monitored with alerts for events such as propped or forced doors, ensuring any breach attempts are detected immediately. Datotel’s team also undergoes regular security-related training to maintain awareness and response readiness.
Datotel’s facility features 24/7 video monitoring that’s digitally archived. Cameras cover all critical areas, including entry points, server cages, common areas, and parking. Surveillance not only deters potential intruders but also provides evidence in the unlikely event of an incident.
Customers can choose from lockable full or half cabinets and custom caged environments ranging from 56 square feet to several thousand square feet. These cages protect individual IT assets and allow businesses to maintain control over their infrastructure. Additional physical barriers, such as restricted floor access and reinforced entry points, enhance security for mission-critical equipment.
All communication lines entering the building do so through multiple secured points of entry, including secured conduits and concreted-encased risers. This prevents tampering and ensures network redundancy while keeping critical infrastructure protected from physical compromise.
The Globe Building provides secured on-site parking for clients and staff. Access is controlled by RFID cards, and the facility is monitored with video surveillance throughout, ensuring vehicles and personnel are protected even entering the building.
Adding a unique layer of protection, the Globe Building now hosts a state-of-the-art substation for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. This onsite presence provides high visibility, rapid response capabilities, and an additional deterrent to criminal activity, strengthening the overall security posture of Datotel’s colocation environment.
Physical data center security protects more than hardware, it safeguards sensitive data and ensures business continuity. Key measures include:
By combining these measures, Datotel ensures clients’ data remains protected from both external threats and human error.
When selecting a colocation provider, businesses should look for:
These factors create a secure environment that allows IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than day-to-day security concerns.
Physical data center security is a cornerstone of effective data center operations. From controlled access and surveillance to secure caged environments, secured elevators and parking, protected communication conduits, and onsite police presence, Datotel combines advanced technology, rigorous processes, and real-world partnerships to protect critical IT infrastructure.
Businesses that prioritize physical security alongside operational reliability and compliance can achieve peace of mind, knowing their servers and sensitive data are well-protected.
Contact Datotel today to learn more about how our St. Louis colocation solutions provide a secure, flexible, and high-performance environment for your IT infrastructure.