SECURING FIBRE CHANNEL FABRICS - Brocade

Physical SecurityPhysical access controls include:• Electronic access systems• Intrusion detection systems• Surveillance systemsElectronic access systems are frequently used to control individualaccess to buildings and areas within a building. The typical electronicaccess system uses a card, which can be either swiped in a cardreader or placed near a proximity sensor to be read. Information containedin the card identifies the individual user and if the user isauthorized, access is granted and recorded in a database with a timestamp. Other electronic access control systems may use biometrics toidentify an individual or a combination of methods for multi-factorauthentication.Some electronic access systems use special entry mechanisms to preventpiggybacking, for example. Piggybacking occurs when anindividual physically follows an authorized user, knowingly or otherwise,to gain access to a location. Social engineering techniques areoften used to bypass this system to convince authorized users to letthem piggyback. Piggyback-prevention systems include turn styles,double doors in a system with a second door that won't open until thefirst is closed, and weight-sensitive floors.Intrusion detection systems are used to detect unauthorized access todesignated areas. These systems include motion sensors, infraredsensors, pressure-sensitive switches, and so on.Surveillance systems monitor activity in designated areas using securitypersonnel, electronic systems, such as closed-circuit television(CCTV) systems, and computer equipment.To develop a comprehensive physical security plan, other factors needto be considered:• Temperature and humidity control• Power management• Uninterruptable power supply (UPS)• GeneratorsAs explained, physical security is the first line of defense in protectingIT assets and is an important component of a comprehensive IT securityprogram.Securing Fibre Channel Fabrics 67