Start with the service
Ask which business service must return first and what it depends on. A useful exercise names the data, identity systems, applications and people needed to restore that service.
Protect the recovery path
CISA’s ransomware guide recommends offline, encrypted backups and regular testing of availability and integrity. Review how backup access is separated from everyday administration.
Measure an actual restoration
For a controlled exercise, select a representative workload, agree an acceptable test window and record the recovery time. Check that authorized users can complete a real task after restoration. List missing dependencies and assign follow-up actions.
Sources & further reading
Our practical suggestions are editorial guidance. Verify applicability against current source and vendor instructions.
