Backup vs Disaster Recovery: Why both are essential in 2023
In today's highly digitalised environment, cybersecurity threats are on the rise and data protection has never been more critical. One crucial aspect of cybersecurity is having robust backup and disaster recovery plans in place. Managed security, along with cloud backup, is transforming the way we safeguard our data. At ACS, we understand the importance of these elements in maintaining business continuity.
What is a Backup in Cybersecurity?
In cybersecurity terms, a backup refers to duplicating your data to ensure it's safe in case of system failure or a cyberattack. Backups are about creating an easily accessible restoration point to swiftly recover and minimise downtime. Cloud backup solutions, which involve storing data off-site on a secure server, are becoming increasingly popular for their accessibility and reliability. At ACS, we highly recommend regular backups, particularly for critical data, to all organisations as a core component of cybersecurity.
Backup Best Practices
Creating and maintaining backups are pivotal in your cybersecurity strategy. Here are a few best practices to follow:
Regular Backups: Ensure to back up your data frequently. The more recent your backup, the less data you lose in case of an attack.
Encryption: Always encrypt your backup data. Encryption adds another layer of cybersecurity, preventing unauthorized access to your data even if the backup is breached.
Cloud Backup: Utilise cloud backups, which are not only cost-effective but also secure and readily accessible.
Test Your Backups: Regularly verify your backups to ensure data integrity and availability when needed.
Worried about what threat may impact your business? Find out what they are and how to defend against them in the latest SonicWall Threat Report.
The Importance of Disaster Recovery in Cybersecurity
Disaster recovery in cybersecurity is a holistic approach aiming to quickly restore your entire IT infrastructure after a cyber disaster. This involves more than just backups; it’s a comprehensive plan to minimise downtime and maintain business continuity.
Disaster Recovery Best Practices
A well-planned and frequently updated disaster recovery strategy is essential. Some best practices include:
Detailed Plan: Create a thorough disaster recovery plan. Managed security services like what we offer at ACS can help you construct an effective strategy.
Identify Key Stakeholders: Assign responsibilities to IT experts, department heads, and senior management.
Conduct Business Impact Analysis (BIA): Identify the potential impact of uncontrolled, non-specific events on your organisation’s processes and functions.
Define Your Metrics: Establish your Recovery Time Objective (RTO) and Recovery Point Objective (RPO) to understand your tolerance for downtime and data loss.
Regular Testing: Test your plan routinely to ensure its efficacy.
The Symbiotic Relationship Between Backup and Disaster Recovery
Both backup and disaster recovery play critical roles in cybersecurity. While backups ensure individual data safety, disaster recovery focuses on restoring your entire business operation swiftly after a cyber catastrophe. They complement each other in creating a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.
At ACS, we strongly advocate for a dual approach encompassing both robust backups, particularly cloud backup solutions, and solid disaster recovery plans as part of managed security services. This combined strategy ensures your business is well-equipped to face and overcome any cyber threats.
If you're seeking assistance in developing a formidable disaster recovery plan or exploring reliable cloud backup solutions, ACS is here to help. Our cybersecurity experts will work with you to craft a strategy that best suits your organisation's needs.
Get in touch with us today and fortify your cybersecurity stance.
