1. Purpose

The Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) ensures that RHU can maintain or quickly resume critical operations in the event of a disaster. The plan aims to minimize downtime, protect vital data, and ensure that the organization can continue to deliver its services effectively.


2. Components

A. Backup Procedures

Objective: Ensure that data and systems can be restored quickly after a disaster.

Components:

  1. Data Backup:
    • Frequency: Daily, weekly, and monthly backups based on data criticality.
    • Types: Full backups, incremental backups, and differential backups.
    • Storage: Off-site storage (cloud storage, external hard drives, etc.) and on-site storage (secure servers).
  2. System Backup:
    • Critical Systems: Identify systems that require regular backups.
    • Backup Methods: Disk-based backups, tape backups, and cloud-based backups.
  3. Backup Management:
    • Encryption: Encrypt backup data to ensure security.
    • Testing: Regularly test backups to verify data integrity and recovery capabilities.

Format:

  • Backup Schedule Template:
Backup TypeFrequencyMethodStorage LocationLast Backup Date
Full BackupWeeklyDisk-Based, CloudOff-Site, On-Site
IncrementalDailyCloud, External DriveOff-Site, On-Site
DifferentialMonthlyCloud, TapeOff-Site, On-Site
B. Data Recovery Plans

Objective: Outline procedures for recovering data and systems after a disaster.

Components:

  1. Recovery Procedures:
    • Data Restoration: Steps to restore data from backups.
    • System Restoration: Procedures for restoring IT systems and applications.
    • Testing: Regularly test recovery procedures to ensure effectiveness.
  2. Recovery Time Objectives (RTO):
    • Definition: Maximum acceptable time to restore critical systems and data.
    • Prioritization: Establish priorities for recovery based on the criticality of systems and data.
  3. Recovery Point Objectives (RPO):
    • Definition: Maximum acceptable amount of data loss measured in time.
    • Backup Frequency: Align backup frequency with RPO requirements.

Format:

  • Data Recovery Plan Template:
System/ DataRecovery ProcedureRTORPOResponsible PersonStatus
C. Alternate Site Arrangements

Objective: Ensure that RHU can continue operations from an alternate location if the primary site is unusable.

Components:

  1. Alternate Site:
    • Type: Hot site, warm site, or cold site based on the need for immediate access.
    • Location: Secure, accessible location with necessary infrastructure.
  2. Site Setup:
    • Infrastructure: Ensure the alternate site has required IT infrastructure, communication tools, and office supplies.
    • Testing: Regularly test the setup to ensure readiness.
  3. Data and Equipment Transfer:
    • Logistics: Procedures for transferring critical data and equipment to the alternate site.
    • Coordination: Ensure smooth coordination between sites.

Format:

  • Alternate Site Arrangement Template:
Site TypeLocationInfrastructureSetup StatusTesting Date
Hot Site
Warm Site
Cold Site
D. Resource Management

Objective: Ensure the availability of necessary resources to support recovery efforts.

Components:

  1. Resource Inventory:
    • Critical Resources: Identify essential resources such as IT equipment, office supplies, and communication tools.
    • Inventory Management: Regularly update the inventory and ensure availability.
  2. Supplier Coordination:
    • Key Suppliers: Identify and establish relationships with suppliers for essential resources.
    • Contracts: Maintain up-to-date contracts and agreements with suppliers for emergency situations.
  3. Logistics:
    • Transportation: Arrange for transportation of resources and personnel if needed.
    • Storage: Secure storage solutions for critical resources.

Format:

  • Resource Management Template:
Resource TypeInventory StatusSupplierContact InformationLogistics Plan
IT Equipment
Office Supplies
Communication Tools

3. Implementation

A. Regular Testing of Recovery Processes

Objective: Ensure that recovery processes are effective and up-to-date.

Components:

  1. Testing Schedule:
    • Frequency: Conduct tests at least twice a year.
    • Types of Tests: Full-scale simulations, tabletop exercises, and component testing.
  2. Evaluation:
    • Post-Test Review: Assess the effectiveness of the recovery processes.
    • Feedback: Gather feedback from participants and make necessary improvements.

Format:

  • Testing Schedule Template:
Test TypeDateTimeParticipantsEvaluation Status
Full Simulation
Tabletop Exercise
Component Testing
B. Updates to the Plan

Objective: Ensure the plan remains relevant and effective.

Components:

  1. Review Schedule:
    • Frequency: Review and update the plan annually or after significant changes.
    • Responsibility: Designate a team or individual responsible for updates.
  2. Incorporating Changes:
    • Lessons Learned: Incorporate feedback from tests, real incidents, and changes in operations.
    • Documentation: Maintain updated documentation and communicate changes to all stakeholders.

Format:

  • Plan Review Template:
Review DateChanges MadeResponsible PersonStatusNext Review Date

By implementing this Disaster Recovery Plan, RHU can ensur