Data Backup Protocol

1. Objective

The purpose of this Data Backup Protocol is to ensure the protection, preservation, and recoverability of critical data within [Your Company Name]. This protocol outlines the procedures for regular backups, secure storage, and data recovery to minimize data loss in the event of a disaster or system failure.

2. Scope

This protocol applies to all data stored on company servers, employee workstations, and any other devices used to process or store critical business data.

3. Backup Schedule

Daily Backups: Backup of all critical data and databases will be performed daily at 2:00 AM.
Weekly Backups: Full system backups will be conducted every Sunday at 3:00 AM.
Monthly Backups: Comprehensive backups of all data, including archives, will be conducted on the first day of each month at 4:00 AM.

4. Backup Methods

Incremental Backups: Daily backups will use incremental backup methods to capture changes since the last backup.
Full Backups: Weekly and monthly backups will be full backups of all data to ensure a complete restore point.

5. Backup Storage

On-Site Storage: Daily backups will be stored on a secure, encrypted network-attached storage (NAS) device located within the company's data center.
Off-Site Storage: Weekly and monthly backups will be transferred to an off-site location to ensure data recovery in case of a site-wide disaster.
Cloud Storage: Monthly backups will also be stored in a secure cloud storage service with encryption.

6. Backup Verification

Integrity Checks: Regular integrity checks will be performed to ensure backup data is not corrupted and is accessible.
Restore Tests: Quarterly restore tests will be conducted to verify that backup data can be successfully restored.

7. Data Encryption

Encryption Standards: All backup data will be encrypted using AES-256 to protect data during storage and transmission.

8. Access Control

Authorized Personnel: Backup files will be accessible only to authorized personnel, including IT administrators and data recovery specialists.
Access Logs: Access to backup data will be logged and reviewed periodically to detect unauthorized access attempts.

9. Data Retention

Retention Period: Daily backups will be retained for 30 days. Weekly backups will be retained for 6 months. Monthly backups will be retained for 1 year.
Archiving: Older backup files beyond the retention period will be securely archived and eventually purged as per data retention policies.

10. Disaster Recovery

Recovery Procedures: Detailed disaster recovery procedures will be documented, including steps for data recovery from backups in the event of system failure or data loss.
Emergency Contacts: A list of emergency contacts, including IT support and backup service providers, will be maintained and updated.

11. Compliance

Regulations: The backup protocol will comply with relevant data protection regulations and industry standards, including GDPR, HIPAA, or other applicable laws.

12. Review and Updates

Protocol Review: This Data Backup Protocol will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to address changes in technology, regulatory requirements, or business needs.

13. Contact Information

For questions or concerns regarding this protocol, please contact:

IT Department: [Your Name]
Email: [Your Email]
Phone: [Your Number]