Best Practices for Cages

Security cages can be a versatile and affordable option when creating a secure area within a whitespace. However, the design and construction of cages is not always as uncomplicated as most clients would believe.
To avoid choosing poorly designed and constructed cages – which can be both ineffective and expensive – we have created this guide, offering the best practices for cages, to help with selecting the ideal caging for data centres.

Use Purpose Built Cages

It can be tempting to use cheaper alternatives when it comes to cages, in order to save a bit of money. However, it is highly unlikely that these methods would be effective.
Using wire mesh caging, rather than purpose-built steel caging for data centres, will end up costing you more in the long run, if not in money, then in time trying to get the cages to do what they were not designed to do.
Purpose built caging for data centres will not only be made to measure, easier to install, and a lot more secure, it will also look a lot better and offer a lot more functionality.

Check Size of Holes

Ensure that no one can access the cage whilst it is locked and without a key. If someone can attach a hook to something and fit it through the holes, they could quite easily access the equipment.
Make sure that the holes in the cage are not large enough to fit hands or tools through, in order to reduce the risk of anyone gaining unauthorised access through this method.
There are also many cage options which have no holes in the walls, which would completely eliminate this risk.

Ensure Difficult Disassembly

A lot of cage systems can be breached by anyone with an adjustable wrench; loosening bolts on the inside, allowing the removal of an entire section of the cage. However, if you follow the above practice, this should prevent this from happening.
Ensure that there are no exposed bolts on the outside or within reach from the outside, so that it cannot be disassembled.

Consider Ceilings & Floors

When selecting a cage system, you have to consider it from top to bottom. Make sure that no one can breach the partition by simply removing a ceiling or floor tile and climbing or crawling in through the top or bottom of the cage.
Look at the partition from all angles, and be sure that every possible point of entry is addressed and blocked, either through enclosing the cage or custom barricades, for example.

Consider Doors & Locking

There are many things to consider when it comes to the entrance of cages, including the choice between hinged and sliding doors. For some cage systems, sliding doors aren’t an option, which means you need a large space around the entrance to allow for the hinged door to swing.
Deciding how you want the door and locking system to behave is also very critical. The door could close automatically, lock automatically or only be lockable from the outside, for example. You need to plan this carefully, or else you could end up with undesirable and impractical results.
Bear in mind that if the door can’t be locked from the inside, then when someone is working inside the cage, they must either be locked in from the outside, or the cage will have to remain unlocked for the duration, leaving it vulnerable.
In essence, it doesn’t matter how secure the cage is, if the door and locking are not going to provide equal or increased security then this will provide an easy access point for unauthorised access.

Consider Aesthetics

Although security and effectiveness are of the utmost importance when it comes to cages, it is also important to consider the aesthetics of the system. Aesthetics are important in a competitive marketplace, so make sure the cage you choose looks professional.

Cross-Guard Connexions

Cross-Guard offers a range of Connexions modular caging systems, designed specifically for use in data centres. Connexions cages are made to measure, offering bespoke-engineered solutions to suit application and installation.
With a wide range of options available, each Connexions server cage can be tailored to suit individual requirements.
Connexions cages are constructed from fully solid panels, punched panels with 6mm to 38mm square holes, 19mm round holes, or a large diamond pattern, or a combination of both solid and punched design. These steel panels are available with a thickness of 1.5mm, 2mm or 3mm.
Creating a professional appearance, Connexions cages and doors can also be customised with corporate logos!
Sliding or hinged self-closing doors can be supplied with a variety of hardware options, including electromagnetic locks, key operated locks, or a combination of both. Polycarbonate vision panels can also be integrated into Connexions doors, without compromising security.
For additional security, a roof can be added, and Connexions cages can be installed with an underfloor barrier, available as bars or panels, to prevent access through the bottom of the cage.

Any Questions?

If you are concerned about the physical security of your data centre, the Cross-Guard team are able to offer expert advice. We will work with you to design and install an affordable cage solution that’s not only compliant and secure, but that also looks modern and professional.