Physical Security

Is our computing equipment properly secured?
It is easy to think that because a computer is located in an office or a lab, that it is secure. However, that is often not the case. Theft of computer equipment has occurred at the University. Physical security of computing equipment is closely tied to a department's attention of overall security of its facilities, e.g. office space, wiring closets, storage space, etc.

Here are some additional questions to help you think about physical security:

• Are all computers located in areas that are not easily accessible to outsiders?

• Do faculty and staff take responsibility for locking doors and windows?

• Has physical security been reviewed with the University Police and Facilities Management?

• Are department desktops and notebooks equipped with anti-theft devices?

• Do only authorized personnel have access to department offices and office keys?

• Are department servers physically secure in a separate area?

• Are there smoke detectors, water detectors and fire suppression systems in the servers areas?

• Is there an accurate inventory of all computing equipment and software? If so, is the inventory stored off-site?

An answer of "no" to any of the above questions indicates a risk for which remedial steps should be considered.

For more information about physical security, contact the University Police or Facilities Management.