Why Data Centers Are Turning to Iris Recognition

Faced with rising cyber and physical threats, data centers are increasingly adopting biometric solutions. Among them, iris recognition technology is gaining traction as a means to enhance access control while facilitating efficient operations.

By: Shauna Hepburn, Marketing Specialist, Iris ID

Growing cybersecurity and physical security risks are pushing data centers to adopt layered approaches to protection. As the hub of an organization’s operations, data centers have evolved over the years to exist not just as physical sites but also in the cloud. Sensitive information stored on these connected servers demands the highest level of protection. To meet this need, organizations, including Fortune 100 companies and CERN, a European nuclear research facility, are increasingly turning to Iris ID’s technology to secure their physical data center locations.

Why Iris Technology?

The foremost reason for implementing a biometric solution for data center access management is to ensure that only the people with approved credentials get in and/or out of the location. Aside from DNA, iris recognition is the most accurate authentication solution on the market. It is also fast and noncontact. The scalability of the solution and its capability to work with existing access control solutions, providing Wiegand and OSDP communication, make it a leading choice in the global market.

In addition to being the most accurate, reliable, and fastest non-contact biometric on the market, iris recognition technology satisfies GDPR regulations. GDPR compliance is crucial for global companies, as fines for non-compliance are steep, reaching up to 4% of an organization’s global revenue. GDPR requires that individuals have a right to know how their opt-in data is being used and stored, and – if requested – the company managing the data must delete it.

For iris recognition to be used in an integrated access control management system, the user must agree to have their irises scanned and stored in a template. This acknowledgement satisfies the opt-in requirement established by the GDPR. The stored images are then converted into a 512-byte digital template, ensuring maximum protection for the user, as no sensitive or personally identifiable information can be extracted from it. Iris technology is also more inclusive than other non-contact technologies; it can be used in extreme weather conditions as well as with users wearing goggles, hard hats, lab suits, and religious garb. Also, it is not affected by weight gain and will produce accurate results regardless of race or gender.Benefits for the Clients

When developing a concrete plan for data center security, several factors must be taken into consideration, including physical security and technology. Iris ID’s solutions mesh well with the preferred layered security approach, allowing organizations to combine multiple technologies. This provides strong protection on the data center floor while applying varying levels of security to other departments. Additionally, not everyone has the same level of access privilege, so Iris ID’s solutions allow organizations to assign and manage different levels of access accordingly. Additionally, these solutions are utilized because they provide a robust standard of secure protection, enabling data centers and colocations to stay ahead of potential threats in a rapidly evolving technological environment.

Iris recognition is the most accurate authentication solution on the market, more inclusive than other non-contact technologies, can be used in extreme weather conditions, and it satisfies GDPR regulations

For data centers seeking stronger access control, iris recognition brings several practical advantages. The technology offers an easy, non-intrusive, and contactless user experience, while also supporting integration with optional third-party surveillance cameras. It can be deployed on top of existing infrastructure, managed remotely, and maintained with relative ease. Combined with round-the-clock security, these features make it a compelling option for operators looking to enhance both protection and efficiency.

Measuring the ROI of Biometric Access

The benefits and ROI of using biometric monitoring in data centers are manifold. From time savings to increased security and efficiency, many organizations – not just data centers – are implementing biometrics into their security mix because it offers the best means to fight against costly physical and cyber security threats.

First, biometric access control is reliable and will only allow those with the proper credentials in and out of controlled areas. The system cannot be hacked or compromised, and access is granted only when users are present on-site. Remote access is strictly prohibited. Next, iris technology and Iris ID products offer the ability to work with MFA solutions such as pins, cards, and other biometrics, such as face. This offers an added layer of protection and customization to accommodate varying levels of security. Finally, there is a benefit of low operational costs. Once the biometric access control system is installed, software and system updates can be carried out automatically, reducing overhead and IT workload so teams can focus on more critical support work.

The Value of Iris ID Technology

Iris ID technology securely restricts access to sensitive areas and information while eliminating the need for keycards or password sharing. It integrates with existing access control systems and works with multifactor authentication solutions, making it adaptable to different security setups. The system is easy to manage on an individual user basis and provides a solution that complies with both federal and global requirements. With a one-time, lifetime enrollment model and no recurring costs, Iris ID is supported by more than 25 years of access control expertise.