Hurricanes pose significant risks to businesses and being prepared is crucial, especially when it comes to your IT infrastructure. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your digital assets, you can minimize downtime, data loss, and potential disruptions to your buiness. In this blog, we will highlight key measures for IT hurricane preparedness.
A disaster recovery plan is the foundation of your IT preparedness strategy. It should outline the necessary steps to protect and recover your technology systems. Key elements to include are:
Risk assessment: Identify critical IT systems, applications, and data that require priority protection and backup.
- Data backup and off-site storage: Regularly back up your data and ensure copies are securely stored off-site or in the cloud.
- Communication plan: Establish clear communication channels to keep your team informed and connected during and after the hurricane.
2. Purchase Battery Backups or Uninterruptable Power Supplies (UPS)
Power outages are common during hurricanes. Purchase uninterruptible power systems to provide temporary backup power. This will give you time to safely shut down systems or switch to alternative power sources. You can also use these battery backups to power cable or internet modems to keep you connected while facing a power loss.
3. Be on the lookout for scammers during storms.
Scammers strive to take advantage of businesses and individuals, so if you receive unusual messages, emails, or visitors, be cautious. Never engage someone to provide disaster recovery services if they approached you or if you don’t know them. Use only pre-qualified vendors and contractors with whom you have previously dealt.
4. Establish a Continuity Plan:
In the event of restricted physical access to your workplace, having remote work capabilities is vital.
Consider the following:
Utilize cloud-based collaboration tools for seamless communication and file sharing.
- Set up virtual private networks (VPNs) to ensure secure remote access to internal networks and resources.
- Implement mobile device management (MDM) solutions for secure access to company data on employees’ devices.
- Test your continuity plan ahead of time to make sure it works so you are ready for the real thing.
5. Maintain Communication Channels:
Communication is critical during and after a hurricane. Establish backup communication channels, such as instant messaging applications and email, to ensure connectivity if phone lines or internet services are compromised. Make an emergency contact list and keep stakeholders up to date on your company’s activities and recovery status.
IT storm readiness is critical for safeguarding digital assets and guaranteeing company continuity. You may reduce the impact of hurricanes on your IT infrastructure by designing a disaster recovery plan, deploying battery backup systems, improving data security, establishing remote work capabilities, and preserving communication channels. During hurricane season, stay prepared and protect your IT assets.
