SANS InfoSec Reading Room - Physical Security

Most of the computer security white papers in the Reading Room have been written by students seeking GIAC certification to fulfill part of their certification requirements and are provided by SANS as a resource to benefit the security community at large. SANS attempts to ensure the accuracy of information, but papers are published "as is". Errors or inconsistencies may exist or may be introduced over time as material becomes dated. If you suspect a serious error, please contact webmaster@sans.org.

Featuring 8 papers as of May 18, 2013

Systems Engineering: Required for Cost-Effective Development of Secure Products

By: Dan Lyon (posted on October 8, 2012)

Security of data and systems is critical to consider during development of a complex system, and by taking a systems approach, secure design can be achieved in a cost effective manner.

A Practical Application of Background Investigations for Small Company Security Perimeters

By: Tim Cook (posted on August 30, 2007)

Fiber Optics and its Security Vulnerabilities

By: Kimberlie Witcher (posted on October 5, 2005)

Researching fiber optic security vulnerabilities suggests that not everyone who is responsible for their networks security is aware of the different methods that intruders use to hack virtually undetected into fiber optic cables.

Implementing Robust Physical Security

By: Bob Pagoria (posted on August 15, 2004)

As the world of computer technology continues to grow, becomes increasingly competitive and vulnerable to malicious attacks, every business must more seriously consider IT (Information Technology) security as a high priority.

Using Passive Environmental Cues to Enhance Physical Security

By: David Pollack (posted on July 25, 2004)

Most computer users are not aware of the fact that malevolent individuals use a variety of methods to gain access to systems including social engineering and outright theft. All too often do people rely on electronic security devices to provide all of their information security needs.

Physical Security: A Biometric Approach

By: Ryan Hay (posted on March 2, 2004)

This paper will analyze various biometric techniques and products, provide advantages and disadvantages of these techniques, and conclude with a discussion on biometrics of the future.

Building the Ideal Web Hosting Facility: A Physical Security Perspective

By: Seth Friedman (posted on October 31, 2003)

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive look at Physical Security by means of building an ideal web hosting facility. By viewing this design and construction process from a Physical Security perspective, we will identify and describe the measures needed to make our facility fully secure; and create a comprehensive Physical Security Primer that can be used in many types of facilities and circumstances.

Protect Yourself

By: Justin Bois (posted on October 31, 2003)

This paper is intended to demonstrate the design of a building with physical security in mind and how to apply the same theories to existing buildings.