March 28, 2024

What are Server Cages?

Server cages are a modular wire partition system used in offices or buildings to protect server farms, data centers, power panels, and other technical areas and keep them secure from unauthorized personnel. Server cages are mainly used in data centers to group and secure critical IT equipment. These designated, secure areas allow for protection and security of critical technical equipment so that businesses no longer have to worry about tampering, theft or unauthorized access.

What are the key functionalities of a server cage?

Enhanced Security:

This is the primary function of server cages. Data centers often house equipment for multiple clients. Server cages act as physical barriers, restricting access to specific servers. Server cages can be equipped with features like:

Access control systems: These require authorized personnel to use key cards or codes to enter the cage.
Surveillance cameras: These provide a visual record of activity within the cage.
Secure locking mechanisms: These ensure only authorized individuals can access the servers physically.

This compartmentalization safeguards sensitive data and prevents unauthorized tampering.

Scalability and Flexibility:

As businesses grow, their IT needs evolve. Server cages allow for easy scaling up or down of server capacity by:

Adding more racks: Additional server racks can be brought in and placed within the existing server cage to accommodate increased storage or processing demands.
Relocating servers: Existing servers can be moved within the server cage or to a different server cage altogether to optimize space and airflow.

This flexibility eliminates the need for frequent reconfiguration of the entire data center layout.

Improved Organization:

Data centers can get crammed with equipment. Server cages help bring order to this chaos. By grouping servers logically within a cage, it becomes easier for IT personnel to:

Locate specific servers for maintenance or upgrades.
Maintain proper cabling for optimal network performance.
Identify potential problems by isolating server clusters within the cage.

This organized approach streamlines data center operations and minimizes downtime.

Environmental Control:

While not the sole purpose, server cages can contribute to better environmental control within a data center. The open mesh design of most server cages allows for airflow, which is crucial for:

Heat dissipation: Servers generate a lot of heat, and proper circulation prevents overheating and potential damage.
Directed cooling: Cooling systems can be targeted towards specific cages to ensure optimal temperature for the housed equipment.

By enabling better airflow, server cages contribute to the overall thermal management of the data center.

What are the key features of server cages?

The key features of server cages focus on creating a secure and functional environment for housing critical IT equipment.

Security Features:

Physical barriers: Server cages are typically constructed with metal bars or mesh panels, restricting unauthorized physical access to servers.
Access control systems: These electronic systems require authorized personnel to use key cards or codes to enter the cage.
Surveillance cameras: These provide a visual record of activity within the cage, deterring potential tampering and aiding in investigations.
Locking mechanisms: Secure locks on cage doors and potentially on individual server racks within the cage offer an extra layer of physical security.

Functional Features:

Scalability: Server cages can be sized to accommodate current needs and designed to allow for adding more server racks as IT infrastructure grows.
Cable management: Many server cages incorporate provisions for organizing and routing cables efficiently, preventing clutter and improving airflow.
Airflow management: The open mesh design of most server cages allows for proper air circulation, which is vital for heat dissipation from servers.

Where are server cages typically used?

Server cages are primarily used in data centers. These are specialized facilities that house the IT infrastructure that powers various online services and applications. Data centers contain a massive amount of computing equipment, networking gear, and storage devices.

Within a data center, server cages are ideal for:

Colocation facilities: These data centers offer space for multiple companies to house their own servers. Server cages provide physical separation and security for each client’s equipment.
Organizations with high-security needs: Companies dealing with sensitive data can benefit from the extra layer of security that cages provide.
Businesses with evolving IT requirements: The scalability of server cages allows companies to easily add or remove servers as their needs change.

What material are server cages made of?

Server cages are primarily constructed from heavy duty, industrial strength welded steel wire mesh panels and tamper resistant locking doors. Steel is the most popular choice for server cages and the majority of wire partitions as it offers superior durability and strength for heavy-duty applications. Steel can withstand significant weight and impact, making it ideal for securing valuable inventory or bulky materials in warehouses, factories, or construction sites. A few additional benefits of the steel wire mesh material include:

Strength and Security: The steel mesh is strong enough to withstand attempted intrusions and deter theft.
Visibility: Warehouse staff can easily see who’s inside the cage, maintaining awareness and control of the situation.

Can a server cage be customized to fit my space?

Yes! Each server cage on WirePartitions.com can be made in custom configurations and sizes to fit your space. Take a look at the custom mesh types, layouts, door types, and sizes here: Server Security Cages

Why should I get a server cage?

Whether or not you need a server cage depends on your specific IT needs and setup. Here are some general guidelines to consider before getting a server cage:

Do you have sensitive data or strict security requirements?
Is your IT infrastructure rapidly growing?
Do you find it challenging to manage cable clutter and server organization?
Do you collocate your servers with other companies?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, then a server cage might be a worthwhile investment for your data security, organization, and future scalability.

Take a look at our server cages here: Server Security Cages

If you have any additional questions about server cages or need help building one for your specific workspace, give us a call at 980-443-2553, email us at [email protected] or live chat with us at WirePartitions.com and we’ll be happy to assist you!