If you’re like most businesses that put effort into protecting their mission-critical data, you’ve likely secured your data and placed it into the hands of a data center in San Diego. But how do you truly know that your data center is as secure as it claims? What pitfalls might you be unaware of that can lead to mistakes in your data center selection? Here we’ll go over possible areas of concern and pertinent questions you should ask your data center provider.
Is your data center physically secure?
Data centers should be housed in standalone buildings with photo ID access and controlled entry. All employees should be trained in emergency protocol, and know how to service backup generators and power supplies to your data. Ask your provider if there are surveillance systems in place, and if the center has around-the-clock monitoring by skilled professionals.
Is your data protected against natural disasters and environmental hazards?
Natural disasters are unavoidable, but it doesn’t mean your data center can’t be prepared for them. They should have protocols in place to notify their customers of any possible compromise, and have a specific plan to mitigate the risk to your data. Ask how long the facility can continue to supply power in a disaster, and if there is a repair plan in place. Are backup generators tested routinely, and is there a consistent and redundant power supply?
Data should be powered by multiple sources so that data uptime is not compromised. You should also know how often backup generators and power supplies are tested, and if your data center has a solid disaster recovery plan.
Has your data center passed yearly audits?
Certifications ensure that a data center passes minimal requirements. Audits allow you to review independent analyses of the facility and ensure compliance. Ask for documentation to verify that the audits your data center claims to have passed are legitimate. Yearly SSAE 16 audits should be a mandatory part of your review checklist. If the facility claims to be green, then LEED Gold and Energy Star certifications should be available for your review as well.
Is there data redundancy?
If your San Diego data center hasn’t suggested redundancy for your data, that’s an immediate red flag. With mirrored centers in other locations such as a data center in Phoenix, you essentially have insurance for your data (by having it stored securely in two separate places). By having your data backed up in Phoenix, disaster recovery is a cinch. Without it, good luck.
Comparing data centers can be tedious process, but don’t expect that it must be. If your data center does not have this information readily available, you may want to immediately search elsewhere. An upstanding data center should be ready and willing to provide any and all information to the client so that you can confidently place your data in safe, secure hands and go on with your daily business.