Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Policies
Sample Solution
Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Policies
Introduction
Computer systems and the data they use are highly valuable resources for a business. Although insurance may cover the loss of these assets, recovery of the systems and data may have a long-term or even fatal effect on the business. To avoid a nonrecoverable situation, an organization must have a plan in place for disaster recovery and a solid plan to ensure the business can continue to operate in the event of a disaster. These plans are contained in the Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Policies section of the IT Governance Policies and Procedures Manual.
Full Answer Section
Disaster Risks
The primary disaster risks that could damage or destroy IT assets, including computer systems, software, and data, are:
- Natural disasters, such as floods, fires, and earthquakes
- Hardware failures
- Software failures
- Human error
- Cyberattacks
Disaster Recovery Policies
The following policies will ensure the safety of the IT assets in the event of the identified disaster risks occurring:
- All IT assets will be backed up regularly.
- Backups will be stored offsite.
- A disaster recovery plan will be in place.
- The disaster recovery plan will be tested regularly.
- Employees will be trained on the disaster recovery plan.
Business Continuity Procedures
The following procedures will allow the business to continue operation in the event of any of the identified disaster risks:
- The business will have a designated alternate site where it can operate in the event of a disaster.
- The business will have a list of critical systems and data that need to be restored in the event of a disaster.
- The business will have a plan for how to restore critical systems and data in the event of a disaster.
- Employees will be trained on the business continuity procedures.
Risk Analysis
A risk analysis will be performed to justify the cost of protection and disaster recovery measures versus potential financial damage to the business. The risk analysis will consider the following factors:
- The likelihood of a disaster occurring
- The cost of the disaster
- The cost of protection and disaster recovery measures
- The potential financial damage to the business
Conclusion
The Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Policies section of the IT Governance Policies and Procedures Manual provides a framework for ensuring the safety of IT assets and the continuity of business operations in the event of a disaster. By following these policies and procedures, organizations can minimize the impact of a disaster and protect their most valuable assets.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Disaster Risks
- Disaster Recovery Policies
- Business Continuity Procedures
- Risk Analysis
- Conclusion