Protecting Data Centers with Network Surveillance Technology

Around the world, data centers play a vital role for consumers and businesses every day. As data becomes an increasingly valuable commodity, operators face the challenge of protecting their infrastructure and assets with intelligent security and surveillance solutions. At the same time, operators need to consider new variables, such as sustainability, which influence their system architectures and the technology vendors they partner with for such a critical component of their enterprise. While playing an integral role in providing digital and cloud services, Moro Hub exemplifies the power and impact of Axis solutions in monitoring and protecting data center infrastructure. Through its partnership with Axis, Moro Hub employs a multi-layered approach to securing its operations, leveraging state-of- the-art technology and analytics to their full potential. It also sets the standard for advanced security and efficiency within the industry. With the help of Axis solutions, Moro Hub has evolved into the premier hub for cloud and hosting, cybersecurity, managed IT services, and smart cities and IoT services.

Guided by a vision to use innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital services to meet businesses’ current and future needs, Moro Hub is one of the Middle East’s leading data centers. It houses operational expertise and government-grade security in a strategically located, purpose-built hub. In addition to boasting unique design principles and world-recognized certifications, the Moro Hub facility proudly holds the Guinness World Record for the largest solar-powered data center in the world, located in Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park. This is a testament to its commitment to sustainability and green technologies.

As infrastructure that is critical to governments and businesses, data centers are high-value sites that need to consider all potential security vulnerabilities, including the threat of physical perimeter breaches and unauthorized access. Operators have a responsibility to ensure the data they handle is secure, while their facilities demand a holistic security solution that meets all their needs. This includes leveraging the latest network video and surveillance technologies, as well as a platform that enables further insights for system optimization and improved decision-making.

Since 2018, Axis has collaborated with Moro Hub to support its security systems, helping meet the evolving demands of its operations.

To meet Moro Hub’s security requirements, Axis deployed its Perimeter Defender Solution to reinforce the facility’s physical access controls. Using this edge-based system, operators can automatically detect and respond to any individuals or vehicles that enter or exit the property. Axis visual and thermal cameras, connected to Moro Hub’s state-of-the-art command and control centre, provide complete coverage of the facility—from its access points to individual server racks. This system helps enforce authorised access and prevent equipment tampering and sabotage. Using metadata gathered from integrated Axis cameras within Moro Hub’s Integrated Physical Security Platform, Moro Hub can gain valuable insights into its operations, optimizing business performance and efficiency.

Taking a holistic and comprehensive approach to security and surveillance, Moro Hub—along with Axis and other partners—has established multiple layers of advanced security measures and solutions to reinforce access to the facility and its monitoring.

• The First Layer begins just outside the Moro Hub facility perimeter. Axis cameras, road blockers, under-vehicle scanners, and audio deterrent systems work together to detect, verify, and deter any unauthorized access. Additionally, smart analytics enable automatically triggered alerts, notifying personnel of potential threats and proactively identifying and mitigating risks before they escalate.
• The Second Layer of protection is past the main gate. Surveillance cameras provide total coverage of the property, offering real-time data to controllers and on-the-ground personnel. This integrated system enables Moro Hub to monitor all movement throughout the facility.
• Access Control, the Third Layer, incorporates the use of key cards, biometric scanners, X-ray machines, and visitor management systems to ensure access to critical areas is monitored and managed. Clearance levels are clearly defined, granting the right access to the right people while minimizing the potential for internal threats.
• The Fourth Layer focuses on individual server rooms, where additional security measures, such as motion sensors and fingerprint scanners, prevent unauthorized access. This ensures that sensitive data and the rooms in which it is stored remain protected.
• The Fifth Layer provides security at the server rack level, with modular camera systems monitoring individual racks.

With this level of integration, Moro Hub is able to easily scale its security system while maintaining a high standard of quality and assurance throughout its security infrastructure. Additional benefits include fewer manned patrols, a reduced potential for false alarms, and overall efficiency gains.