It may seem counterintuitive that an industry built on data and advanced technology relies on a human touch to ensure its resilience, but this is especially true for data centers.
Automation and sophisticated systems have no doubt transformed how we safeguard these critical facilities. But a balanced approach that leverages both security technology and the specialized skills and expertise of on-site security professionals creates a stronger, more robust security program.
Security officers play a critical role in ensuring only authorized people gain access, mitigating insider threats, and maintaining an active presence that enhances situational awareness.
As head of Securitas’ Data Center Group, I’ve spent countless hours supporting some of the world’s largest data centers, designing security solutions that balance the best of both tech and human intelligence. In the process, I’ve gained deep insights into their complex security and safety needs.
In this blog, I’ll share more about why people remain essential to securing data centers and how specialized training equips them to meet the industry’s rising standards.
The human advantage in data center security
During Covid, many industries focused on reducing people from the equation – contributing to an innovation boom in areas like automation and remote services. However, what we saw in the data center industry was that people began to play an even bigger role.
As health, safety, and security requirements shifted – sometimes daily – data centers needed skilled professionals on-site who were able to handle these constantly evolving circumstances. In short, we learned just how irreplaceable humans are during a crisis – a lesson not confined to this industry.
The adaptability, decision-making, and problem-solving skills of security officers became even more important. Combine those with an officer’s intuition, vigilance, and interpersonal skills and you have a security presence that can anticipate, respond to, and mitigate threats in ways technology alone cannot.
Today, we continue to see this trend in data centers – with people playing a pivotal role in ensuring the industry’s resilience.
Specially trained data center security professionals
As the data center industry continues to grow and security threats become more sophisticated, data center security needs to keep pace. That isn’t limited only to technology but also applies to the people who secure these facilities.
The demands of data center security are unique. Officers operate in highly controlled and regulated environments that must meet extremely high compliance standards. Any lapse in vigilance could have significant consequences – from compromised data privacy to serious and widespread security breaches.
As such, officers need to possess a unique skill set to meet the high standards required to protect this critical infrastructure. Specialized, in-depth training that covers all aspects of data center security – including access control, emergency response, security ethics, professional conduct, and health and safety best practices – helps to further equip them with the skills needed to confidently navigate these challenges.
This type of training will become even more critical as the industry booms and its reliance on people expands.
The enduring value of human expertise
As the world becomes increasingly reliant on data centers to power everything from communication to commerce, the role of people in securing these facilities remains irreplaceable.
Indeed, people remain at the heart of data center security. And how we continue to invest in and support these professionals will shape the industry for years to come.
