IBM i Disaster Recovery
The iSeries, also known as AS400, is a robust and reliable platform used by businesses worldwide for critical applications and data management. However, despite its reliability, unforeseen events like natural disasters, cyber-attacks, or system failures can disrupt operations. This makes a comprehensive disaster recovery plan essential for maintaining business continuity.
Disaster recovery (DR) involves preparing for and recovering from these disruptive events. iSeries disaster recovery is essential for maintaining business continuity and protecting critical data. A comprehensive DR plan involves risk assessment, regular testing, and choosing the right recovery strategies.
The IBM iSeries, also known as AS400, is a family of midrange computers designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Renowned for their stability and security, these systems are often used for ERP, CRM, and other enterprise applications. iSeries systems are integral to various industries, including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. They support critical operations such as transaction processing, database management, and enterprise resource planning (ERP).
Disaster Recovery Planning for iSeries
Given the critical role iSeries systems play in business operations, any downtime can result in significant financial losses and damage to reputation. An effective DR plan minimizes these risks by ensuring that systems can be restored swiftly and data integrity is maintained.
Risk Assessment
Identify potential threats and their impact on iSeries systems.
Business Impact Analysis (BIA)
Evaluate the consequences of system downtime and data loss.
Define RPO and RTO
Establish Recovery Point Objectives (RPO) and Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) to guide recovery efforts.
Develop Recovery Strategies
Create specific procedures for data backup, system restoration, and communication during a disaster.
Implement and Test the Plan
Regularly test the DR plan to ensure its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
Implementation Strategies for iSeries Disaster Recovery
On-site vs. Off-site Recovery Solutions
On-site Recovery
Quick access to backup data and systems but vulnerable to local disasters.
Off-site Recovery
More resilient to local disasters but may have longer recovery times.
Cloud-Based Disaster Recovery
Using cloud services for DR offers flexibility and scalability. Cloud-based solutions can reduce costs and simplify recovery processes by leveraging the provider's infrastructure.
Replication and Mirroring Techniques
Replication and mirroring involve copying data to a secondary location in real-time or near real-time. This ensures that data is up-to-date and can be quickly restored.
Tape Backup and Storage
Traditional tape backups remain a viable option for long-term storage and archiving. Ensure tapes are stored securely and rotated regularly.
Choosing the right partner for your IBM i disaster recovery is crucial for ensuring the resilience and continuity of your business. With our expertise, comprehensive solutions, state-of-the-art technology, and unwavering support, we are the ideal partner to help you navigate any disaster with confidence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect your critical systems and keep your business running smoothly.
