Colocation Cage Considerations

Protecting your assets is vital, both in a physical and cyber security sense. Maintaining a high level of security to protect you and your customer’s IT equipment starts with the right layer of protection at the source of your data center. A colocation cage provides security, reduces high equipment temperatures, limits visibility into your operations, and creates a more organized space.

Emcor Enclosures provides customizable solutions that will help protect your data equipment as we work with your team to provide a cage perfect for your needs. 

What Is a Colocation Cage?

A colocation cage is a data center cage that protects your physical assets. Yes, cyber security is at the forefront of your operations — but having a barrier around your servers is just as critical.

Data centers can include anything from networked computer servers and routers to storage systems, security devices, and more. Whether your data center is for a small operation or has a massive intake, the remote storage, processing, and distribution of your data at a centralized location demand the utmost security.

A colocation cage is a structure composed of posts surrounded and outlined by panels of wire. The panels or wire enable air flow throughout the space to maintain a temperature-controlled environment, ensuring your equipment doesn’t overheat. In other cases, full panels can surround your type of framework, no matter if it houses cables, servers, and other equipment systems. Some colocation cages have swing or sliding doors for entry access with a variety of security precautions. Higher security levels may be necessary depending on your preferences and your operations, or a simple access door may serve well.

There are many aspects to consider when designing a colocation cage.

How to Know if You Need a Colocation Cage?

If you have a data center, how do you know if a colocation cage is necessary? The top seven questions to consider when designing a colocation project include:

  1. What type of data center do you work with? Do you operate an enterprise, managed services, co-location, or backroom data center? The type will impact the size and layout of the security structure, as well as the type of material and style of panels.
  2. Will you need to expand the cage at some point? If you plan on expanding your equipment to house more tenants or if your operations evolve and multiply, standard panels give you the freedom to add more square footage or divide an existing space. You can disassemble these panels without damaging servers. It’s important to choose the right products that will allow your facility to expand while remaining secure.
  3. Do specific areas need to be blocked off from the servers? Whether you have multiple entry points to the facility or you have a separate area for generators and other systems, you can block off those areas while preserving a temperature-controlled environment.
  4. What are the space’s dimensions? The size of your space will determine whether standard dimensions are suitable for your project or if you require more customized solutions. 
  5. How much visibility inside the cage do you want? Are you searching for a more open design or one with zero visibility inside the colocation cage? Steel mesh is available in various shapes and dimensions, plus solid surfaces are also common. For sensitive applications, you can opt for a small mesh opening with additional netting to obscure the view or invest in solid panels.
  6. How wide do you need the access aisles? Because floor space is often a premium in data centers, aisles can be very narrow. If you need more compact aisle dimensions, sliding doors can be preferable as they don’t obstruct walkways.
  7. What should you look for when partnering with a cage supplier? Work with a colocation company to design a cage that fits your price range, security levels, square footage, and expectations, ensuring they provide you with expert advice and various solutions that match your data center’s size, type, visibility, and access needs.

Think about how the cage can match the contours of your space while providing high levels of security, and consider exposed pipes and irregular walls. Ask the professionals what colocation cage will best protect your assets while working with your budget and expectations. Don’t default to the less expensive option. While an off-the-shelf solution may be your best bet compared to a customized cage, you must also consider how your needs may change in the future and what pieces of your operation are unique. For example, you may need a specific material to limit visibility or require a cage that extends fully from floor to ceiling.

What a Data Center Cage Says About Your Company

Having a professional data center cage shows that you take security seriously, no matter if you’re managing several IT systems or have a large operation of your own. The additional layer of security through a high-quality design cage shows you respect the security of their data center and yours.

A colocation cage also conveys a positive image of your company to operators and managers. With a clean, efficient, and modern design, the cage can indicate how you take pride in your operations. You can be seen as a professional that regards security as a top concern while paying attention to detail.

The sleek design of the cage can show off a great sense of comfort and peace of mind, as the visual impact can also say something about your company. Investing in a colocation cage shows how you maximize security efforts while minimizing wasted space for all parties involved.

Benefits of a Data Center Cage

Server cage benefits can range from the added security and regulated temperatures of cabinets to preventing damage and limiting inside visibility. Benefits of a data center cade include:

  • Protect data from malicious personnel
  • Include multi-factor identification like facial recognition and biometrics
  • Integrated motion sensor cameras within security systems
  • Controlled airflow to regulate data server temperatures
  • Organized space to help technicians with untangled wires
  • Customizable configuration
  • Compatible with different equipment
  • Easy maintenance

Because data centers often contain highly sensitive information, implementing security measures is crucial. Colocation cages can lock the entire system down to warrant unwanted personnel from entering, with most security systems requiring clearance to enter. Server cages can also work with versatile products, ranging from servers to routers and everything between.

Aside from security, temperature regulation is next on the list of top benefits. With the proper ventilation and design setup, colocations can keep your equipment cool, preventing damage caused by extreme temperatures. With the right setup that matches your equipment, data cages can keep everything running at optimal speeds to increase performance.

It’s vital to partner with a company that can provide specific solutions to your data systems, needs, budget, and unique expectations. We are here to work with you to determine the best design and ideal layout by customizing your data center cage.

Need a Custom Colocation Cage?

Emcor Enclosures is a leading engineer in colocation design for a range of companies and industries across the board. We are a manufacturer with the same process control and capabilities as the largest suppliers while tailoring our solutions to your needs. Our team prides itself on great customer service that follows through with quick lead times. We offer an easy product modification process through our technical expertise.

Contact us about a specific product you’re searching for or you can also call us at 507-287-3535