The UK government has officially designated data centers as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), a move aimed at strengthening their resilience against cyber threats, IT outages, and environmental hazards. This announcement, made by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, underscores the importance of protecting crucial data, such as NHS records and financial information, while bolstering the overall digital economy.

The new classification elevates data centers to the same level of importance as energy and water services, ensuring they receive additional governmental support. This includes enhanced coordination with security agencies like the National Cyber Security Center and the establishment of a dedicated data infrastructure team of senior government officials.

This step intends to mitigate the risks posed by cyber-attacks and technical failures, both of which could disrupt vital services like healthcare and financial systems. Earlier this year, a technical glitch caused by a Crowd Strike update left 60% of GP practices unable to access essential software. This highlighted the potential scale of disruption that data center vulnerabilities can cause.

In addition to this regulatory move, the government has proposed a significant £3.75 billion investment in building Europe’s largest data center in Hertfordshire. This project, pending approval, is led by data center company DC01UK and is expected to create 700 local jobs and support nearly 14,000 positions in the UK’s tech sector.

“Data centers are the engines of modern life, they power the digital economy and keep our most personal information safe. Bringing data centers into the Critical National Infrastructure regime will allow better coordination and cooperation with the government against cyber criminals and unexpected events,” said Peter Kyle.

He added, “The huge £3.75 billion private investment announced today in Hertfordshire is a vote of confidence in those plans and a clear example of my determination to ensure technological advancements are helping to grow our economy and create wealth across the country.”