Microsoft Word Hardware Reconfiguration Methodology V final2

Various restoration factors

1. Resource allocation and assurance

It is important prior to any restoration that all required resources are made available and allocated (if immediately necessary). For example, resources could be centralized backup servers, additional disk or tape drives, the backup media itself, or personnel such as a backup operator. It is important that resources already be available before the restoration is to commence as unforeseen delays will inevitably lead to increased down time for systems and mission critical systems can only be taken offline for short periods. For example, if a disk fails on a mission critical server while a restoration is underway then a spare disk must be available and someone must be present in order to intervene and to take necessary corrective measures.

Network paths, centralized servers, remote backup devices, etc., should also be available when required, and if necessary, tested beforehand to determine their functional status. In addition, spare hardware should always be on hand in order to mitigate and resolve hardware-based problems as they arise. Finally, it is important to have a rescue and Live CD available so that should the operating system of the system being restored fail then the restoration can nevertheless continue with minimal interruption.

2. Scripts

All scripts used during the backup phase should also be made available for the restoration process. In addition, most scripts, when written for backing up one or more systems using one or

more tools will generally require a rewrite to be able to restore data from media using said tools. The restoration scripts, if any, should perform the inverse function of the backup script(s).

3. Data safeguarding

All backup media should be safeguarded and stored in cool environments as stated by the manufacturer’s long-term storage recommendations. Generally, this will require controlled environments that have the appropriate mixture of temperature, humidity, and stored away from strong magnetic sources. In addition, the media should be stored according to its value. High- value data should be stored nearby but off-site, possibly in fireproof or fire-resistant storage containers, lockers, or safes. Furthermore, the media should always be secured from theft and tampering. It is also important to consider placing spare equipment such as backup devices and disks in lockup so that when and if they are required it is certain that they will be there.

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