Data Backup and Recovery

Summary

Backup and recovery is the process of duplicating data and storing it in a secure place in case of loss or damage, and then restoring that data to a location (the original or a safe alternative).

Categories

The categories applicable to this standard are:

Information and Data Management

• Data Governance
• Data Lifecycle

Purpose

Restoring data from an earlier point in time helps DfE recover information, systems or services from an unplanned event.

Data backup and recovery is undertaken by DDT for IT systems/services and by SRO / IAOs for locally managed databases and data sets.

How to meet this standard

Data Backup and Recovery Planning

Backup and recovery planning is also known as Business Continuity. The planning process usually involves development of a business continuity plan (BCP), which is a document that consists of the critical information, functions, systems and processes that must be sustained, along with associated risks.

Refer to Business Continuity (DfE Intranet) for the latest guidance and templates.

Data Backup and Recovery Testing

Testing a data backup and disaster recovery plan provides assurance in the event of a disaster scenario. It gives confidence as to who will do what activity, and in what sequence to restore operational functionality. Sometimes known as business continuity testing.

Refer to Disaster Recovery in DfE (DfE Intranet) for the latest guidance and templates.

Managing Data During Incidents

During an incident, data backup and recovery plans are leveraged to restore data and functionality in a prioritised manner.

Refer to how to respond and manage an incident (DfE Intranet) for the latest guidance and templates.

Declaring conformance with this standard

Conformance with the standard must be recorded every 12 months.

Owner and contacts

Standard owner

Saheel Sankriwala
Chief Technology and Data Officer

Other point of contact

DDT Standards
Team