Effective NIS2 Process: Ensuring Regular Backups and Their Secure Storage

Regular backups and their secure storage are essential to ensure data security and to be prepared for unexpected incidents. The primary purpose is to secure critical data and systems so that they can be quickly restored in case of an emergency. This process encompasses all IT systems, applications, and databases necessary for the operation of a company. The continuous creation, storage, and recovery of backups ensure that the company is optimally prepared for potential data losses.

Automated Backup Creation

Backups are created automatically. The IT department ensures that all critical systems and databases are backed up daily. This is done through backup software that performs both incremental and full backups outside of business hours. These backups include changed data and complete copies of all relevant systems, including operating systems, applications, databases, and user data. For maximum security, backups are stored at a geographically separated location to protect against physical threats such as natural disasters. This external storage location is carefully selected and meets high security standards regarding access control, environmental factors, and physical security.

Confidentiality and Encryption

A particularly important point is the confidentiality of the secured data. Therefore, all backups are encrypted before transmission and storage. IT security personnel manage the encryption keys and ensure that they are regularly updated to maintain data protection. In addition to securing the data, it is also crucial that the restoration works smoothly in an emergency. For this reason, the IT department conducts recovery tests monthly. A complete backup is restored to verify the integrity and availability of the secured data. These tests help identify and address vulnerabilities in the backup process early on.

Continuous Monitoring of Backup Processes

Continuous monitoring of backup processes is equally essential. If errors or interruptions occur, the IT department is immediately notified and takes care of problem resolution. This ensures that all backups are successfully and correctly completed. All performed backups, recovery tests, and issues encountered are documented in detail. These reports are regularly forwarded to management to ensure that leadership is always informed about the status of data backup.

Adapting the Backup Strategy

Moreover, the backup strategy is not viewed as a static process. It is reviewed once a year and adjusted as needed to accommodate new technologies or requirements. Changes in the IT infrastructure or business processes that affect data backup are integrated into the strategy to always implement the best possible measures. Training and regular tests help continuously optimize the strategy and ensure that data recovery works smoothly even in emergencies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a carefully planned and regularly reviewed backup strategy is an indispensable component of IT security measures. Close collaboration between the IT department and IT security personnel ensures that backups are not only created but also stored securely and are always retrievable. The combination of automation, encryption, and regular testing ensures that a company is optimally prepared for potential data losses and can act quickly in emergencies.