5 Ways to Improve Your Data Center’s Physical Security

When people talk about data security, the focus often stays on the digital side, but protecting your servers physically is just as important. Data center physical security prevents unauthorized access, theft, and damage to the hardware that keeps your operation running. A secure, well-designed facility reduces downtime, safeguards sensitive information, and ensures compliance with industry standards.

1. Modular Guard Shacks

The best place to prevent a security breach is at the perimeter. Installing a modular guard shack or security booth allows for controlled entry and direct monitoring of all traffic. Prefabricated guard shacks can be customized to your facility’s needs, ranging from basic weather-protected enclosures to ballistic-rated models with reinforced walls and secure viewing windows. These structures provide a visible deterrent and a reliable first checkpoint for your site.

2. Prefabricated Entry Vestibules

Adding a prefabricated vestibule to your building’s main entrance strengthens access control without disrupting daily operations. A vestibule helps regulate personnel flow, verify credentials, and ensure only authorized individuals gain entry. These spaces can include integrated security systems such as card readers, intercoms, and electronic locks. Modular construction allows the vestibule to be installed quickly, minimizing downtime while improving building security.

3. Ballistic-Rated Wall Systems

For high-risk environments, ballistic-rated wall systems offer added protection for staff and critical infrastructure. These panels can be installed in guard shacks, vestibules, or command rooms to safeguard against potential threats. Panel Built’s ballistic systems are tested to UL 752 and NIJ standards, providing reliable defense while maintaining a professional appearance suitable for commercial or government data centers.

4. CCTV and Surveillance Integration

A strong physical security strategy includes visibility. Installing CCTV camera systems throughout the property not only deters intruders but also provides crucial evidence in the event of an incident. Real-time monitoring from a security office or guard shack allows for immediate response. Infrared and motion-activated cameras offer 24/7 coverage, while modern AI-enabled systems can flag suspicious movement or unusual activity automatically.

5. Employee Training and Security Awareness

Even the best physical security system can fail without an informed team. A study by Stanford University and Tessian found that 88% of data breaches stem from employee mistakes. Regular data center security training helps reduce these risks. Refresher courses, posted reminders, and digital sign-ins can reinforce proper access control habits. According to IBM Security Intelligence, 10% of malicious breaches in 2020 resulted from physical compromises, averaging $4.46 million in damages.

These statistics highlight the need for a security-focused culture that supports the physical systems protecting your network.

Why Physical Security Matters

The cost of a breach extends far beyond damaged equipment. Downtime, lost data, and reputational harm can all affect a company’s bottom line. Investing in a comprehensive physical security plan—combining well-trained staff, advanced surveillance, and modular access control structures—creates lasting protection for your facility.

In many data centers, sensitive electrical and networking systems are also protected within modular E-Houses, which are prefabricated, climate-controlled enclosures that house switchgear, servers, or power distribution equipment. These E-Houses can be engineered with ballistic-rated walls, controlled access, and integrated fire protection to safeguard critical systems from both environmental and physical threats.

Panel Built designs and manufactures secure modular buildings engineered for data center environments. Our products include prefabricated guard shacks, entry vestibules, ballistic-rated panels, and modular E-Houses tailored to your facility’s specific layout and risk level. Each structure is factory-built for quality and assembled quickly on-site, helping you strengthen security without long construction delays.

To learn more about our data center security solutions, call 800.636.3873, email info@panelbuilt.com, or chat with us using the LiveChat feature at the bottom right of your screen.

From modular offices to military-grade watch towers, Panel Built delivers secure, durable structures for commercial, industrial, and government applications. Our mission remains the same: To solve our customers’ space needs with excellence and great customer service.