A data disaster recovery plan is an essential need for every business that uses IT to collect and store important business data. What is particularly important for businesses to understand is that there is much more to disaster recovery services than simply doing regular data backups. Disaster recovery plans involve thorough data backup, yet also include planning for how to recover data quickly and even how to prevent data disasters in the first place.
With a good disaster recovery plan that includes the components referenced below, a company can reduce their risk of lost data and increase their ability to recover from any incidents as quickly as possible, should they happen.
Understanding and Responding to System Threats
Effective data recovery plans start with identifying the various threats to IT networks that can result in data loss, then implement the right solution to protect against them. Disaster recovery plans must ensure that a network is as secure as possible and identify any security shortcomings so they can be remedied. A system threat assessment by an experienced MSP is a good place to start. In identifying and understanding a network’s weak spots, disaster recovery services can be tailored as needed to be as thorough as possible.
Data Inventory and Protection
Disaster recovery is much more than routine backups. Effective disaster recovery plans include knowing what data is critical and must be preserved, then determining the best way to do that. Essential data usually includes client and customer data, vendor and employee information, and sales or tax information; however, it may include much more. Preserved data should also include the applications necessary to access all of this data, from operating systems to specific software programs.
For a successful recovery after a data disaster, disaster recovery services must take into account what data is required to get a company back up and running, then work to preserve this data.
Active Participation and Communication in DRPs
Understanding the actual data risks, how to reduce or prevent loss, and how to protect and restore data are the main components in effective disaster recovery plans. Yet these components cannot come together to work as a good plan without a company actively participating in their disaster recovery services and ensuring they have open communication with their service providers. It is erroneous for a business to assume that disaster recovery plans can be designed and executed solely by MSPs, since every plan will be different according to a company's needs.
It is also essential for a business to understand their disaster recovery plan, how to help improve network security, and how their input is critical to help ensure the right data is protected. Smooth recoveries require input and effort from both the company and their disaster recovery services, so that both understand the processes and how to facilitate them.
The creation of successful disaster recovery plans requires the inclusion of the key elements referenced above. Without them, a company may face greater risks and wind up with insufficient protection of the critical data required to reduce downtime when a data loss does occur. Through good communication and working closely with disaster recovery services, a company can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing their data is well protected by an effective and efficient disaster recovery plan!
