Brian Sofley, Managing Director of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland Door Group, argues that while cyber protection often dominates discussions about data centre resilience, physical security deserves equal attention.
Data centres form the backbone of the UK’s digital economy, hosting financial systems, government services and commercial platforms. Yet they remain vulnerable to threats that extend beyond the virtual domain. Recent findings reveal that almost four in ten UK operators have faced cyber-attacks linked to physical breaches, while nearly a third report attempted unauthorised access. In 2023, physical breaches were implicated in more than a quarter of catastrophic data events, underscoring the continuing risks posed by insufficient site protection. Metal theft is also on the rise, with criminals targeting sites repeatedly despite replacement of stolen materials.
Physical intrusions carry consequences that reach far beyond stolen assets. They can cause service interruptions, loss of sensitive information and reputational damage. Security doors play a frontline role here, providing both deterrence and defence. For data centres that operate with minimal staff or remote monitoring, a strong physical barrier can delay unauthorised access long enough for a response team to act. Solutions such as ASSA ABLOY’s Powershield steel doors are tested to recognised standards, including LPS 1175, and can be tailored to threat levels specific to each site.
Beyond forced entry, electromagnetic security has emerged as a pressing concern. Every electronic device emits signals which, if intercepted, can expose sensitive information. Sophisticated TEMPEST attacks, which exploit electromagnetic emissions for covert surveillance, represent a growing risk for facilities considered part of critical national infrastructure. Shielded enclosures, Faraday cages and doors engineered to resist electromagnetic leakage, such as ASSA ABLOY’s TEMPEST-rated solutions, are designed to address this challenge.
Because no two sites are alike, data centres require tailored solutions across different operational zones. Steel doors may be appropriate for perimeters or plant rooms, while timber products with fire and acoustic performance offer a balance of security and design for office areas or corridors. Specialised options, such as blast-rated or acoustic doors, provide targeted protection for generator halls or UPS rooms. Durability is another priority, as constant use in corridors and equipment rooms places heavy strain on hardware like hinges and closers. Maintaining this reliability is essential not only for daily operation but also to ensure that fire and acoustic doors deliver on their protective functions.
The risks associated with fire highlight another dimension of physical security. A fire can weaken building structures, disable security systems and force evacuations that leave sites exposed. Fire doors are critical in maintaining secure escape routes and ensuring that perimeters remain intact during emergencies. To achieve this, regular inspections and maintenance are as important as the initial specification.
The growing focus on asset management also reflects the sector’s need for traceability and compliance. ASSA ABLOY’s Openings Studio™ software is one example of how Building Information Modelling (BIM) can support resilience by creating a detailed digital record from specification through installation and maintenance. For data centres, this approach strengthens accountability, ensures compliance with regulations such as the Building Safety Act 2022, and supports operational continuity.
As demand for data storage and processing continues to grow, the case for stronger physical protection becomes more pressing. For operators, acknowledging that resilience depends on both digital and physical measures is essential. Doors, hardware and protective systems may not always be at the forefront of data centre discussions, but without them, the wider infrastructure remains exposed.