The Critical Role of Door Control Solutions in Datacenter Physical Security

In today’s data‑driven world, datacenters power everything—from cloud computing and AI applications to the daily apps we rely on for work and communication. As demand continues to surge, the number of datacenters in the U.S. has climbed to 5,381 as of January 2025, with projected growth indicating more than 3,500 additional facilities by 2030. 

With this rapid expansion comes a critical priority: physical security. While organizations invest heavily in cybersecurity, encryption, and network defenses, one often overlooked truth remains: Even the strongest digital security measures fail if someone can simply walk through an unsecured door.
— A core principle behind SDC Security’s approach to datacenter protection

www.sdcsec.com/DatacenterSecurity

Why Physical Security is Essential in Modern Datacenters

Perimeter alarms, biometric authentication, multi‑factor access, and data encryption are essential—but none are effective if the physical entry points fail. As SDC Security emphasizes, doors are the last line of defense, protecting the facility’s most valuable assets:

1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Networks
4. Power systems
5. Sensitive data 

Even industry giants like Microsoft integrate SDC access and egress control hardware within their datacenters, underscoring the importance of robust door security. 

The Three Core Layers of Datacenter Door Security

SDC breaks down datacenter physical security into three essential control zones:

1. Perimeter Door Controls

These secure the outermost layer—the entrances and exits to the building. They support:

• Staff and visitor management
• After‑hours access control
• Enhanced accessibility and safety 
  
  

2.   Facility Door Controls

These protect access to the facility's operational and monitoring centers. They provide:

1. • Controlled entry to sensitive office areas
   • Access audit trails
   • Accountability for personnel movement 
     
     

3. Critical Component Door Controls

This is the core—where your most sensitive infrastructure resides. These doors safeguard:

• • Server rooms
  • Storage clusters
  • Network switches
  • Cooling systems
  • Backup generators

Keeping unauthorized users out prevents vandalism, theft, operational disruption, and compliance violations.

SDC Door Control Solutions for Datacenters

SDC brings decades of door control innovation to datacenter environments. Their solutions are designed specifically to strengthen every layer of access control. Key products include:

AUTO Series Low Energy Swing Door Operators featuring:

• One‑button, self‑tuning setup
• Onboard lock sequencing
• Built‑in 1 amp+ power supply

AUTO‑IR Series Door‑mounted presence sensors offering:

• One‑button calibration
• Dual‑sensor presence activation
• Smooth, safe operation
  

480 Series Push Plates Available in narrow, square, or round formats:

• Full‑plate activation
• SPDT or DPDT switch options

7700 Series Motorized Latch Retraction & Solenoid Mortise Locks Built for durability with features like:

• Heavy‑duty mortise construction
• Compatibility with new or retrofit projects
• Vandal‑resistant clutch

Who Benefits From These Solutions?

SDC’s datacenter solutions are built for:

• Architects
• Design & construction firms
• Contract hardware professionals
• Security integrators
• Owners/operators of enterprise, colocation, and cloud datacenters 

Each audience segment gains the tools and clarity needed to design facilities that comply with stringent physical security requirements and industry best practices.

Final Thoughts

As datacenters continue to expand in size, complexity, and strategic importance, the need for robust physical access control has never been greater. SDC’s comprehensive lineup of door control solutions ensures that datacenters remain secure at every level—from the front door to the server cabinet.

In a landscape where threats evolve daily, SDC helps ensure that your facility’s final line of defense is also its strongest.