Physical access systems long the domain of security specialists working with older technologies are as important to information technology departments as Logical access systems. It is time for the productive convergence of physical and IT or logical, security.

Physical security involves measures undertaken to protect personnel, equipment and property against threats. It includes both passive and active measures. Passive measures include the effective use of architecture, landscaping and lighting to achieve improved security by deterring, disrupting or mitigating potential threats. Active measures include the use of proven systems and technologies designed to deter, detect, report and react against threats.

With the nation’s current attention focused upon transmittable diseases and potential cyber attacks, it’s important not to overlook critical physical security issues that may leave an institution vulnerable

Start by conducting an initial risk assessment that identifies those people, places, and things that represent either direct threats or opportunities for compromise to your institution’s security. In terms of facilities, physical security issues focus upon the locations that your institution either owns, rents, manages or controls. Then establish risk assessment priorities based upon safety, security, business practices, and policies.

Properly conceived and implemented security policies, programs and technologies are essential to ensure a facility’s resistance to myriad threats while meeting demanding uptime, reliability and performance objectives. One of the biggest misconceptions is that there is a single technology that can provide comprehensive security for any organization. No single technology can do this. Multiple technologies integrated into all operational and informational systems are required. – Facilitiesnet.com

An organization’s or mission critical physical asset particularly IT Data Centers, Head Quarters, Public Utilities, etc should be periodically independently reviewed.

GREEN IT – Energy efficiency in power and server usage – coming soon.

The above texts are a sample of the advisory research & analytical rigor we undertake in our pursuit to get you the right advise!