Academic Computer Centre Cyfronet AGH (Poland): Axxon PSIM + Pelco Cameras
The IT field is booming — drawing both big dollars and increasing crime. Digital theft is on the upswing, making reliable data center security services more critical than ever for research facilities. AxxonSoft and its technology partners have implemented a number of major security projects at scientific and educational institutions. One of these is integration of an AxxonSoft-powered security system at the Academic Computer Centre Cyfronet AGH in Krakow, Poland. The project aims to secure the data center and protect vital research assets.
Client
Academic Computer Centre Cyfronet AGH was created in 1973 by the National Committee for Scientific Research for development of supercomputer software and construction of a Krakow-wide metropolitan area network. Today, Cyfronet AGH is a major Polish academic institution as well as popular venue for international research and conferences in the IT field.
In 2014, a new hall was added for computers, and in April 2015 the Centre added Poland’s fastest-ever supercomputer, named Prometheus. This was the first project of its scale in Eastern Europe, and only the third such project in the world: the first supercomputer based on the HP Apollo 8000 platform is sited in the U.S. and the second one in Norway. The introduction of such advanced technology emphasized the importance of comprehensive data center security requirements.
Situation
To protect intellectual property and high-value computing hardware, Cyfronet AGH management decided to equip the site with a modern security system that is convenient for Centre employees while simultaneously guaranteeing the integrity of all memory devices and research data, aligning with strict data center security requirements.
Based on the project goals and objectives, management determined that any prospective security system must:
- Support distributed use across multiple locations.
- Enable operation of a monitoring hub to enable data oversight.
- Allow for use of a multilayer interactive map.
- Automatically process events.
- Integrate with Galaxy access control and intruder alarm systems.
Solution
After thorough analysis, Axxon PSIM emerged as the preferred security platform. Known for its scalability, versatility, and flexibility, Axxon PSIM met the data center security management needs. It offered a unified infrastructure that combined video surveillance, alarm systems, perimeter security, and access control.
IP cameras from Pelco (Schneider Electric Group) were chosen for their high quality and reliability. Due to the client’s need for hardware integration with special access control and fire/security alarm equipment, a Honeywell Galaxy Dimension module was deployed as well.
Result
With the successful implementation of Axxon PSIM and Pelco cameras, Cyfronet AGH now enjoys uninterrupted surveillance across its entire facility. The advanced security system not only meets the Centre’s stringent data center security requirements but also empowers the staff to continue their groundbreaking IT research with confidence, knowing that their secure data centers are well-protected.