A Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) is a documented strategy to recover and protect a business IT infrastructure in the event of a disaster.
Description
In the context of cybersecurity, a Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) is essential for organizations to ensure minimal downtime and data loss following unexpected events such as cyberattacks, natural disasters, or system failures. A DRP outlines the procedures for responding to such incidents, focusing on the restoration of critical systems and data. It typically includes backup solutions, data recovery processes, and communication plans necessary for maintaining business continuity. For example, after a ransomware attack, a DRP would detail how to isolate affected systems, restore data from backups, and secure the network to prevent future incidents. Regular testing and updates to the DRP are crucial, as they help organizations adapt to new threats and changes in technology. The effectiveness of a DRP can significantly reduce the impact of a disaster on operations, ensuring that businesses can recover quickly and maintain trust with clients and stakeholders.
Examples
- Target's DRP was activated in response to a data breach in 2013, which involved a multi-step recovery process to secure customer data and restore systems.
- In 2020, a major hurricane prompted a financial institution to implement its DRP, allowing for rapid recovery of systems and minimal service interruption.
Additional Information
- A DRP should be part of a broader Business Continuity Plan (BCP) that addresses all aspects of business operations.
- Regular drills and simulations are recommended to ensure all staff are familiar with the DRP and can act swiftly during an actual disaster.