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Episode 22

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Published on:

8th Sep 2026

AI Factories & Fortresses: Securing the Data Centre Boom

In this episode of Security Tech Talk, host Steve Kenny is joined by Shane Garner, Head of Security and ICT at Pure Data Centre Group. Together, they take a deep dive into one of the world's fastest-growing technology sectors: data centres. From their growing role as critical infrastructure across Europe to the rapid expansion underway across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Steve and Shane explore what's driving the data centre boom—and what it means for security.

Drawing on a career that began "sitting on a roll of cable" as a systems integrator, Shane shares how his hands-on engineering experience has shaped his approach to security, ICT, cyber security, and operational technology (OT). Along the way, Steve and Shane explore the shift from traditional cloud infrastructure to AI-driven data centres, the growing demands on power, liquid cooling, structural design, and fibre infrastructure, and why resilience, efficiency, and security are becoming increasingly important as data centres evolve.

About Our Guest:

  • Shane Garner is Head of Security and ICT at Pure Data Centre Group. With a hands-on background spanning systems integration, engineering, and design, Shane now oversees a broad range of systems across data centre design and build, including security, ICT, cyber security, OT networks, building management systems (BMS), power management systems (PMS), and extra-low voltage (ELV) infrastructure.

Chapters:

  • (0:00:16) – Introduction & The GCC Data Centre Expansion

Steve and Shane open the episode discussing the global surge in data centre construction, its classification as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), and the massive expansion currently taking place across the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

  • (0:01:45) – From "Sitting on a Roll of Cable" to Head of Security & ICT

Shane reflects on his journey from configuring servers and working in communications rooms to overseeing security and ICT, and why understanding technology at a granular level remains invaluable when designing complex data centre environments.

  • (0:04:12) – The Convergence of IT, OT, and Cyber Security

A look at the thousands of Ethernet-connected controllers across cooling plant rooms, generators, and power management systems. Shane emphasizes the importance of collaborating with operations teams early to safeguard critical OT networks.

  • (0:08:32) – Defence in Depth & Zero Trust and AI

Shane explains why modern physical security relies on layered perimeter controls, air-gapped zero-trust networks, active directory authentication (802.1x), and AI analytics to highlight alarms by exception rather than overwhelming control room operators.

  • (0:10:47) – Audits, Threat Detection, and Wireless Risks

How data centre operators navigate stringent tenant cyber security audits. Shane discusses the strict prohibition of wireless protocols (like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) on critical plant equipment to protect against airborne drone threats and signal interception.

  • (0:16:29) – Breaking Down Closed Protocols

Addressing the challenge of proprietary, closed protocols in access control and surveillance. Shane highlights the necessity of open protocols (BACnet, Modbus, open APIs) to integrate tailgating detection and anti-passback systems cleanly.

  • (0:21:27) – The Shift to AI: Power, Liquid Cooling, and Structural Loads

How the industry is adapting as rack densities jump from 20kW to over 120kW. Shane details the architectural, electrical, and mechanical shifts required to implement liquid-to-chip cooling and high-density fibre infrastructure for AI workloads.

  • (0:32:15) – Hyperscaler Audits and Supply Chain Due Diligence

Steve and Shane discuss how major global technology tenants evaluate vendors, conducting deep-level physical and cyber audits down to the clear-desk policies and hardware component origin.

  • (0:35:44) – Digital Twins, NDAA Compliance, and Future Regulation

A look ahead at the future of data centre design. Shane explains how digital twins will allow operators to stress-test environmental conditions and network telemetry in non-live environments, alongside the rising complexity of chipset-level NDAA compliance.

Resources:

Meet your host Steve Kenny:

Steve has spent 15 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best compliment day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across EMEA. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by improving security, safety, operational efficiency, and business intelligence. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers video surveillance, access control, intercoms, and audio solutions. These are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training.

Axis has around 5,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/

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About the Podcast

Security Tech Talk
Conversations with security industry disruptors and innovators
We talk to security industry leaders, disruptors, and innovators with strong views and opinions on the future of topics like physical security, smart buildings, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and more. We dig into the latest tech trends, explore how security is shaping the world, and delve into those tricky regulations (like NIS2, the Cyber Resilience Act, the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, the UK's Product Security, Telecommunications, Infrastructure Act and more) that keep everyone on their toes. We are here to talk about technology trends, explore the big issues facing the security industry, and provide valuable insights that will support you and your business. Join us as we uncover important information to help you come away feeling well-educated and prepared for the future. This podcast is brought to you by Axis Communications Inc. - innovating for a smarter, safer world.

About your host

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Steven Kenny

Steven Kenny – Manager, Architecture & Engineering Program – EMEA, Axis Communications.
With two decades of experience in the security industry, Steven Kenny has played active roles in numerous high-profile projects, both domestically and internationally. Over the last eleven years, his focus has been on understanding how security technologies can best support business security strategies, all while advocating for the heightened importance of cybersecurity and compliance within the physical security field.

Currently leading a team of Architect and Engineering managers across the EMEA region, Steven remains committed to contributing positively to global security practices. He is actively involved in industry associations and international standards organizations, seeking to collaboratively shape the landscape of security.

In a more behind-the-scenes capacity, Steven has provided consultative support to a national steering group instrumental in establishing the Secure by Design, Secure by Default certification. His close collaboration with the UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner reflects his dedication to enhancing standards in the physical security sector. As a speaker at international security conferences, Steven has modestly shared insights that have contributed to the industry's development and the identification of key technology trends.

Beyond his professional commitments, Steven has volunteered his expertise, previously serving as Director of Systems, Information, and Cyber Security for ASIS International and the UK chapter, before being elected as a board director. He also serves on the EMEA Advisor Council as the emerging technology lead for TiNYg (Global Terrorism Information Network). Additionally, he contributes to various standards committees supporting IoT security and plays a role in the BSI Private Security Management and Services. Steven Kenny's humble dedication has made a meaningful impact on the global security landscape, positioning him as a valued contributor to the industry.