Preventing Catastrophic IT Failures

Many businesses are totally reliant on their computer systems. A brief power outage or server down time is often more than just inconvenient as extended loss of servers or other parts of the IT infrastructure can be downright catastrophic. Many businesses are so dependent upon their IT system that without it they can not process orders, support customers, and perform daily operations. An outage of just a few days has forced some companies to shut their doors.

If you are heavily reliant on your IT systems, here are some things to consider:

• Have redundant servers on-site
• Have a backup power source in the event the power goes out
• Have a redundant off-site system

• Back up data daily and verify that backup tapes (or other media) actually have the backed up data
• Use redundant backup such as an on-line backup service
• Store back ups in a secure fire proof location
• Contract with a service company to provide remote preventative maintenance on your systems
• Ensure that your service contracts include a suitable maximum response time, including rapid hardware replacement if needed
• Install and keep up to date appropriate firewalls, anti-malware, and anti-virus software
• Establish and enforce suitable Internet and e-mail use policies
• Ensure that all of your software is current and supported by the vendors/developers
• Ensure that all software is properly licensed and license fees are paid
• Don’t allow users to install unauthorized software
• If you have custom software, ensure that you have all applicable current source code and there is at least one person other than the developer who knows and understands the inner workings of the software
• Establish processes to adequately test and exercise new software changes prior to going live

Will Limkemann

Siqua Group Limited