Keeping IT Running in the Event of a Disaster
It goes without saying that modern businesses run on Information Technology. So this begs the question – what do you do when your information technology fails? The idiom “failing to plan is planning to fail” certainly applies here. Let’s take a look at how we prepare for keeping IT running in the event of a disaster:
IT Recovery Strategies
Recovery plans for information technology (IT) systems, applications, and data should be created. Communication, networks, servers, desktops, laptops, wireless devices, and data are all covered in this section. Priorities for business operations and processes should be compatible with IT recovery priorities established during the business impact analysis. It’s critical to figure out what IT resources are required to support time-critical business operations and functions. The recovery time of an IT resource should be in line with the goal of the business process or function that it supports.
Hardware, software, data, and communication are all necessary for information technology systems. The “system” might not function without one of its components. In order to prepare for the loss of one or more of the following system components, recovery methods should be developed:
- Environment of a computer room (secure computer room with climate control, conditioned and backup power supply, etc.)
- Precisely what (networks, servers, desktop and laptop computers, wireless devices and peripherals)
- Linking up with a service provider (fiber, cable, wireless, etc.)
- software programs (electronic data interchange, electronic mail, enterprise resource management, office productivity, etc.)
- Data and data recovery
Vendor Supported Recovery Strategies
For IT disaster recovery, there are suppliers who can offer “hot sites.” These locations are complete data centers with widely used hardware and software. In the event of a disaster, subscribers may offer specialized hardware or software, or they may keep it on hand at the hot spot.
Vendors may host and manage data streams, data security services, and applications. Using a web browser, this information can be accessible at the main business site or any alternative site. The vendor automatically stores data until the client’s system is restored if the vendor notices an outage at the client site. In order to improve cyber security, these providers can also offer data filtering and malware threat detection.
Developing an IT Disaster Recovery Plan
Companies should create an IT disaster recovery strategy. It This starts by creating a list of all the hardware, software, and data that is there, including servers, desktops, laptops, and wireless devices. A strategy for making sure all important data is backed up should be part of the plan.
Identify the hardware needed to execute important software applications, data, and software. Replicating and re-imaging new gear will be made easier by using standardized hardware. Make sure there are enough copies of the program software to allow for re-installation on other pieces of equipment. Give hardware and software restoration first priority.
Developing a Data Backup Plan
Determine which data, in addition to other hard copy records and information, needs to be backed up from network servers, desktop computers, laptop computers, and wireless devices. The strategy should involve routine backups to a network server from wireless devices, laptops, and desktop computers. The server’s data can then be backed up. By scanning paper documents into digital formats and allowing them to be backed up alongside other digital data, it is possible to backup hard copy important records.
Ready to Develop Your Own Recovery Plan?
There are obviously a lot of pieces involved in getting this right, but we’re here to help. Before disaster strikes, be sure you have a strategy in place. Contact JENLOR today to get started on keeping IT running in the event of a disaster.