Data centres form the backbone of the digital economy. Every day, they process, store and transmit highly sensitive information that is indispensable for both businesses and critical infrastructures. Given this central role, data centre operators are subject to high security requirements – in technical, organisational and physical terms. In this context, ISO 27001 has established itself as the internationally recognised standard for information security management systems (ISMS). ISO 27001 certification is now considered a key success factor for professional data centres that want to demonstrate trust, efficiency and compliance.

This white paper highlights the key aspects of ISO 27001 certification, physical security requirements, the certification process, typical challenges and proven solutions for data centres.

ISO 27001: international standard for information security management systems

ISO 27001 (current version ISO 27001:2022) is the world’s leading standard for ISMS. It defines systematic requirements for the protection of confidential information and critical business processes. The standard’s holistic approach encompasses three dimensions:

1. Technical security measures – including network segmentation, identity and access management, encryption, and backup and recovery concepts.
2. Organisational security measures – such as policies, contingency plans, training programmes, and incident response processes.
3. Physical security measures – including access controls, security zones, tamper-proof door systems and emergency access.

In total, ISO 27001 defines 93 security controls that cover the entire information security lifecycle. Annex A.11 is particularly relevant for data centres, as it deals with physical and environmental security in information processing facilities.

ISO 27001 is aimed at organisations of all sizes and industries that process, store or transmit information. The standard is particularly critical for data centres, cloud providers, financial service providers and operators of KRITIS infrastructures. ISO 27001 enables risks to be systematically identified, assessed and addressed. At the same time, the standard offers continuous improvement of security measures via the PDCA cycle (Plan, Do, Check, Act).

Relevance of ISO 27001 for data centres

ISO 27001 certification brings concrete benefits for data centre operators:

• Trust among KRITIS customers: Tenders in the field of critical infrastructures increasingly require certification. Without proof of ISO 27001-compliant security standards, bids may fail at the pre-selection stage.
• Reduced insurance premiums: Cyber insurance companies reward ISO 27001 certificates with lower premiums and simplified claims settlement.
• Structured risk management: Clear processes for risk identification and assessment reduce uncertainties and strengthen operational resilience.
• Operational efficiency: Documented processes, defined responsibilities and regular reviews create transparency and enable continuous optimisation.
• Competitive advantages: Certified data centres proactively position themselves for future regulations and increasing security requirements.
• International recognition: ISO 27001 serves as a globally accepted proof of trust for cross-border business.

Physical security requirements for data centres

ISO 27001 requires a clear demarcation of security zones within a data centre. Each zone – from reception to technical rooms to server rooms – must have specific security measures in place. The key requirements are:

• Multi-level security zones: Graded protection levels for outdoor areas, reception areas, technical rooms and server rooms.
• Access controls: Traceable, tamper-proof access regulations, clear identification of all persons, time-limited authorisations and complete logging of access events.
• Mechanical and electronic security solutions: Robust door systems, security locks and electronic access control systems that allow for easy documentation and centralised management.
• Emergency management: Data centres must remain functional even in the event of technical failures, natural disasters or security incidents. ISO 27001 requires detailed emergency plans, regular testing and training, and continuous adaptation of measures. Proven security solutions

ASSA ABLOY offers proven security solutions for ISO 27001-compliant data centres:

• CLIQ locking systems: Programmable, flexible access without complex cabling, centralised authorisation management and automatic logging.
• Mechanical security locks: Protection against tampering and forced entry.
• Aperio solutions: Expansion of existing doors with electronic access control, both for new buildings and retrofits. All systems meet the documentation requirements of ISO 27001.

Physical security measures should be taken into account when planning a data centre in order to make subsequent implementations more efficient.

ISO 27001 certification process

Certification is carried out in two phases by an accredited certification body:

1. Documentation review: Review of guidelines, risk analyses and organisational implementation.
2. Practical implementation review: Evaluation of the effectiveness of all measures implemented on site, including inspections, interviews, system tests and control checks.

The certificate is valid for three years, with annual surveillance audits to maintain its validity.

Checklist for successful certification

Successful ISO 27001 certification requires structured preparation:

Inventory: Inventory infrastructure, record critical IT assets, document data flows, record cloud services and regulatory requirements.

Organisation & responsibilities: Appoint information security officers, involve the ISMS steering committee, create a budget and project plan, define the implementation team.

Risk analysis: Analyse threats, determine protection requirements, perform risk assessment, document business continuity strategies and supplier risks.

Technical measures: Implement network segmentation, identity and access management, encryption, backup/recovery, monitoring & logging, physical security measures.

Organisational measures: Create security guidelines, develop emergency plans, implement training and awareness concepts, introduce a document management system, define incident response processes.

Employees & training: Conduct awareness campaigns, complete training for employees and external service providers, communicate roles and responsibilities.

Review & improvement: Conduct internal audits, define key performance indicators for ISMS effectiveness, conduct management reviews, establish continuous improvement processes.

Certification preparation: Select an accredited certification body, conduct a system review, remedy weaknesses, provide complete documentation, prepare the organisation for audit.

Frequently asked questions

Duration of certification: 6–12 months, depending on size, maturity and infrastructure complexity.

Required physical measures: Controlled access areas, tamper-proof locking systems, monitoring of critical zones, emergency access, fire doors and redundant security systems.

Advantages in everyday business: Access to KRITIS tenders, reduced insurance premiums, increased operational efficiency, preparation for stricter regulations, proof of trust for international customers.

Summary

ISO 27001 certification is essential for data centres. It ensures that sensitive data is protected, risks are systematically reduced and security processes are continuously optimised. Physical security measures, structured organisational processes, emergency management and modern access control systems form the basis for a certified, future-proof data centre. Operators who implement this standard benefit not only from greater operational security, but also from economic advantages, international recognition and increased customer trust.

With systematic preparation, proven security solutions and clearly defined processes, certification can be achieved efficiently and sustainably. ISO 27001 is therefore not only a compliance tool, but also a strategic success factor for data centres in the digital age.

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