How To Protect Your Business From An IT Disaster
Unfortunately, IT disasters happen and whilst you are certain to learn some difficult lessons after experiencing an IT disaster first hand, protection is a much better, less damaging route to take. According to recent research, some 75% of small businesses don’t have a disaster recovery plan in place. Meaning when disaster strikes, whether that disaster is in the shape of data loss, security breach, hardware damage, software failure or fire, the aftermath has the potential to put you out of business for good.
It’s not all bad news though, there are a variety of steps you can take to protect your business in the event of an IT disaster, and it all starts with a recovery plan…
Do I really need a disaster recovery plan?
In short – yes. A disaster recovery plan ensures you and your staff are fully aware of the steps to take in response to unforeseen circumstances. Disaster recovery plans provide a structured approach and clear instructions regarding what to do to minimise impact and how to resume ‘business as usual’ as quickly and safely as possible.
Often referred to as a business continuity plan, the procedures detailed in your IT disaster recovery plan will ensure minimal disruption to your business and its customers. IT disasters have a significant impact on the operations, longevity and reputation of even the biggest and strongest brands, remember the TalkTalk security breach. For data loss disasters in particular recovery can be a long, difficult and expensive road. Creating a disaster recovery plan with detailed steps will help to support your business and its IT systems after a disaster.
How can I prepare for the worst?
Whilst it is advisable to complete an IT disaster recovery plan, using best practice to ensure your system and wider business’ survival isn’t easy. Your IT disaster recovery plan should be built on complete analysis of your company’s needs, and this includes all potential threats and the impact such threats would have on your business. Using this information, you can then determine your possible reactions to the threats and plan for recovery. Some scenarios are more likely than others, for instance you’re more likely to be the target of malware or password phishing attacks than a flood or fire, but preparing for all eventualities is essential.
Protecting your technology is important when devising an IT disaster recovery plan but it is important not to overlook the people and processes that will inevitably bring your company back from the brink. Ask yourself what you need from your staff in the event of a disaster and which processes will get you up and running once again. You can even name specific staff members that have specific roles in the event of a disaster.
Need help with IT disaster recovery planning?
Enlisting the help of an IT emergency specialist, like us, is a vital part of the puzzle when devising a disaster recovery plan that works. We have experience handling all types of IT emergencies and can use this to appropriately prepare your business should the worst happen.
Contact our helpdesk now on 01536 216146 or visit our IT Emergency page for further information.
A specialist IT Company based in Corby, Northamptonshire, Syntec Systems provide expert IT Solutions and IT Support services to businesses in the local area. Syntec Systems specialise in IT Management, IT Consultancy and IT Procurement, and their experienced technicians also offer a 24/7 helpdesk service to help resolve untimely IT Issues for all businesses with no prior contract.