Enhancing Data Center Security
As data centers continue to grow in scale and importance, so too do the threats they face - both physical and digital.
Download Case StudyAs data centers continue to grow in scale and importance, so too do the threats they face - both physical and digital. In response to these evolving challenges, Gallagher Security Africa recently partnered with Channel Partner ECCO Access Systems to deliver a comprehensive and tailored security solution for a data center.
Together, Gallagher and ECCO Access Systems successfully addressed complex security requirements, improved operational resilience, and ensured compliance with health and safety standards.
The challenge
Data centers are critical infrastructure, yet they are increasingly vulnerable to a wide range of threats. Physically, they face risks such as unauthorized access, impersonation attempts using fake identification, theft of equipment and intellectual property, and environmental hazards including power disruptions, fuel shortages, and infrastructure failures. These threats can compromise operations and result in significant financial and reputational damage.
Cybersecurity threats are equally severe. Attacks involving malware, ransomware, phishing, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) campaigns can disrupt systems, compromise sensitive data, and exploit outdated or poorly secured hardware.
Morne Grobler, General Manager - Africa, says the customer required a security solution that could monitor personnel movement and occupancy, manage access restrictions, support emergency evacuation procedures, prevent unauthorized equipment removal and tailgating, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. With both domestic and international visitors expected, the system also needed to provide secure and efficient visitor management.
Gallagher’s ability to deliver integrated solutions with immediate product availability was a key factor in the decision. ECCO Access Systems’ reputation as a trusted channel partner and their deep knowledge of data center security further strengthened the partnership.
Morne Grobler, General Manager - Africa
The solution
“To meet these complex requirements, Gallagher and ECCO Access Systems deployed a multi-layered security system built around Gallagher’s award-winning and advanced access control and surveillance technologies. The solution was designed to be scalable, flexible, and tailored specifically to the customer’s operational environment,” says Morne.
At the core of the system were Gallagher Controllers, which provided reliable access control across sensitive areas. Gallagher’s Command Centre platform and visitor management system streamlined access permissions and enabled efficient tracking of personnel and visitors.
“Command Centre was also configured to integrate seamlessly with CCTV systems and alarm triggers, allowing for immediate alerts in the event of a security breach. The system’s flexibility enabled the customer to manage access dynamically, ensuring that the right people could enter the right areas at the right time,” says Morne.
To enhance identity verification and access security, the team integrated biometric technologies to ensure only authorized individuals could access restricted zones.
The solution included several customizations. Gallagher’s off-the-shelf products were adapted to support rapid entry without compromising security. This included Gallagher’s Care Plan, where the End User selected the customization option to include rapid entry on the Command Centre visitor management platform.
Visual alerting capabilities were enhanced to improve real-time threat detection and response. Additionally, the system was configured to verify identities using government-issued ID numbers or passport numbers, strengthening visitor tracking and compliance.
“ECCO Access Systems played a pivotal role in the deployment, bringing deep expertise in both the security industry and data center environments. Their innovative approach and close collaboration with us at Gallagher ensured that the solution was technically sound and operationally effective,” says Morne.
The outcome
The deployment of Gallagher’s security solution, enhanced by strategic partner integrations and custom configurations, resulted in significant improvements across the data center’s security landscape.
“We were proud to work alongside ECCO Access Systems and our End User on this important project. We were also proud to be chosen to deliver it thanks to our global footprint, reputation for quality, and strong support network in the African market,” says Morne.
“Gallagher’s ability to deliver integrated solutions with immediate product availability was a key factor in the decision. ECCO Access Systems’ reputation as a trusted channel partner and their deep knowledge of data center security further strengthened the partnership.
“Ultimately, the project delivered a secure, scalable, and compliant solution that met the client’s needs and built a lasting relationship between Gallagher, ECCO Access Systems, and the End User.”
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