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

Prepare for Catestrophic IT Failure

In the information age most businesses are totally dependent upon their computer systems. A brief power outage or server down time is more than just inconvenient – they can mean lost productivity and revenue. An extended loss of servers or other elements of the information technology (IT) infrastructure can be downright catestrophic. Companies have had to close their doors due to extended IT outages.

Here are some things a business should consider and do:

1. Have redundant servers

2. Back up data at least deaily and verify that backup media is properly storing the current data.

3. Store backu ups in a secure and fire proof location – preferably at a remote site.

4. Have a redundant off-site system.

5. Contract with a service company that provides remote preventative maintenance on your system, guaranteeing response time and timely hardware replacement when needed.

6. Install and keep upt to date firewalls and malware detection software.

7. Establish and enforce policies for use of E-Mail and Internet access.

8. Ensure that all software is current and well supported by vendors/developers.

9. If you use custom software, ensure that a) you have all applicable current source code, b) there is at least one person other than the developer who knows and understands the inner workings of the software.

Will Limkemann
Limkemann Business Advisors
440-871-0976
www.neobizadvisor.com
will@limkemann.net