CertiGuide to Security+  9  Chapter 5:  Operational/Organizational Security (Domain 5.0; 15%)       9  5.2  Disaster Recovery            9  5.2.2  Secure Recovery

5.2.2  Secure Recovery 1 5.2.3  Disaster Recovery Plan

If the firm is small enough, a cold site may suffice. A cold site may be rented storage in a hotel, containing minimal equipment. When a major system crash occurs (for whatever reason), renting a room in the hotel can provide an alternate site with minimal downtime.

A hot site is fully equipped, with technology including the phone lines, chairs, etc. The site does not have to be sitting idle. Consider using a branch office, or if the firm is too small, to have other locations, create a reciprocal relationship with another company. Ideally, the site is of some geographical distance from the original site. Consider how the damage area in a flood, earthquake or another natural occurrence would impact when planning an alternate site.

Vital records should be part of a site, hot or cold. This data should include how to reach employees, contact information for water, power, and telecommunication companies that provide logistical support to your firm.

5.2.2  Secure Recovery 1 5.2.3  Disaster Recovery Plan