Top Five Threats to Data Center Management

Data center management depends on a variety of factors. Even with successful policies, a malicious attack or a power outage without a data center UPS can bring everything down quickly. Here is a closer look at five of the biggest threats to data center management.

1. Inefficient Security Protocols

Some of the biggest threats to data centers come from inefficient security practices. The protocols and measures that you put in place should offer protection against the latest cyber threats, including

  • Ransomware
  • Phishing
  • Mobile security exploits
  • Cloud security threats
  • Denial-of-service attacks

You may also need to consider the risks of remote working if any of your staff work outside of the data center. Your security protocols need to account for the extra vulnerabilities involved in remote work. For example, remote staff may need to follow specific procedures to ensure a secure connection from their homes.

2. Lack of a Backup Power Supply

Every data center needs a data center UPS to protect against loss of data during a power outage. An uninterrupted power supply (UPS) is a type of battery backup that offers temporary power to devices when the standard power source fails.

A data center UPS protects against power outages, voltage spikes, and other electrical issues that can damage equipment. Using a UPS ensures that your costly data center equipment is protected from surges and brownouts.

A UPS may also allow the devices to continue operating long enough for power to be restored during an outage. Keeping your servers and other equipment running may prevent any disruption of service from your data center.

3. Overstretched Data Center Staff

Cybersecurity personnel who are stretched too thin or overworked may fail to detect issues and potential threats. They are also more likely to make mistakes that may leave your data center more vulnerable.

Security procedures are only as effective as the people responsible for implementing them. If your staff skips a step, they may expose your data center to potential threats.

Data center managers should aim to avoid overworking staff and help employees maintain a good work/life balance. Avoiding overtime and accepting time-off requests may increase the well-being of employees, which leads to greater productivity and fewer mistakes. 

4. Lack of Compliance with Regulations

Data center management involves developing policies that comply with government and industry regulations and laws. Violating certain regulations can significantly impact data center operations.

For example, failing to comply with government regulations may force a data center to stop serving a specific region. Not following industry standards may negatively affect the reputation of a business.

Unfortunately, compliance is becoming increasingly challenging. Data centers must comply with a growing list of regulations from a wide range of entities.

Taking the time to implement a system for addressing compliance mandates may save time and decrease the risk of violations. For example, a platform for generating standard operating procedures allows data center managers to easily adopt and edit practices to ensure greater compliance.

5. Outdated Hardware and Software

Outdated hardware and software limit the effectiveness of a data center. Older systems may lack compatibility with the latest software and technologies. Outdated technologies are also often slower and less reliable.

Relying on outdated systems also poses a security risk. Older software may no longer receive security updates, which can leave data centers at a greater risk of becoming a victim of a cyberattack. Hackers may take advantage of exploits found on older software.

Newer software and hardware should continue to receive patches and updates to address any potential security issues. Data center managers should periodically review the age of the data center infrastructure to determine if newer equipment or software is necessary.

Adam Hansen
 

Adam is a part time journalist, entrepreneur, investor and father.