Home to more than 300 data centers, California boasts the second-highest concentration of these operations outside of Northern Virginia. Spread among nearly 30 communities throughout the state, the biggest cluster is found in Silicon Valley, where Santa Clara alone lays claim to 74 data centers.

Whether they are built to meet the needs of a single data-hungry user or operate as colocation sites serving multiple tenants, what these data centers all have in common is the need for reliable perimeter security.

“Northern California in particular is a high-tech hub where sophisticated companies understand the importance of cybersecurity,” said Teresa Giralt, a data center security expert at Ameristar Perimeter Security. “Increasingly, they see that the threat to their operations also extends to their facility’s property line. A solid perimeter is vital to defend against bad actors who wish to gain access.”

Giralt will lead a panel of experts discussing best practices in physical security at Bisnow’s National DICE Data Center Construction, Design and Development - West event on June 3 in San Jose. Click here to learn more and register.

Bisnow caught up with Giralt to get her insights on the region’s data center security challenges.

Bisnow: To borrow the title of your roundtable, how does perimeter security fit within a data center project’s life cycle, from blueprint to build?

Giralt: Perimeter security needs to be in the conversation early, not just when the fences go up. We’re talking about something that impacts site layout, access control and overall risk mitigation.

When it’s brought in at the blueprint phase, we can align with the general contractor’s schedule, integrate with the electrical and security trades, and avoid delays or redesigns. It's about being proactive instead of reactive.

Bisnow: Data center operators are focused on issues like meeting the power and capacity demands of artificial intelligence, but are they also developing a deeper appreciation for perimeter security?

Giralt: Yes, 100%. The AI wave is pushing demand in every direction, and with that comes more visibility and vulnerability. Owners are realizing that physical security is just as critical as digital. Downtime or a breach at the perimeter can be just as damaging.

We’re seeing a shift: They’re asking better questions, planning further ahead and treating physical security as part of their long-term operational strategy.

Bisnow: Does Northern California have any special advantages — or challenges — when it comes to perimeter security?

Giralt: Northern California definitely brings both advantages and challenges. On the one hand, there’s a strong culture of innovation, so people here are more open to smart security, integrated systems and higher-performing solutions.

On the other hand, you’ve got seismic codes, space constraints, permitting hurdles and more. Products need to be adaptable and code-compliant without slowing down the build. It’s a balancing act, but one that can be managed with the right planning.

Bisnow: What do you hope people gain from the June 3 discussion?

Giralt: I want people to walk away with a better understanding of how physical security fits into the bigger picture — not just the “what” but the “when” and “how.” This is about aligning design, construction and operations to avoid surprises and make smarter choices early on.

If people leave this event feeling more confident in asking the right questions or planning ahead, that’s a win.

Bisnow: Tell us a little about the other participants in the roundtable — what do they bring to the table, so to speak?

Giralt: This panel brings a great mix of expertise — people who’ve been on-site, in the weeds and at the table with owners. Every one of them sees it through a slightly different lens. Some are more technical, some focus on risk and compliance, others on execution and coordination.

It’s going to be a practical, real-world — not theoretical — conversation, and I think people will find a lot of value in that.

Click here to register for Bisnow’s National DICE Data Center Construction, Design and Development - West event.

This article was produced in collaboration between Ameristar Perimeter Security and Studio B. Bisnow news staff was not involved in the production of this content.

Studio B is Bisnow’s in-house content and design studio. To learn more about how Studio B can help your team, reach out to studio@bisnow.com.