SSCP Systems Security Certified PractitionerIncident Response and RecoveryMedium
A small medical clinic is developing its disaster recovery plan. Due to budget constraints, they cannot afford a hot site. They decide to use a facility that includes basic office space, power, and network connectivity, but requires them to bring their own computers, servers, and data backups. What type of alternate site have they chosen?
- AWarm site
- BCold site
- CHot site
- DReciprocal agreement
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Cold site
A cold site provides basic infrastructure like space, power, and connectivity, but requires the organization to supply all necessary hardware and data, making it the most cost-effective but slowest recovery option.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A warm site would have some pre-installed hardware.
- C. A hot site would be fully equipped and operational.
- D. A reciprocal agreement involves using another organization's facilities, which isn't described here.
Cold Site
A disaster recovery site that provides basic infrastructure (e.g., office space, power, cooling, network) but lacks IT equipment and data, requiring significant time to become operational.
- Lowest cost among alternate sites.
- Requires the longest Recovery Time Objective (RTO).
- Needs all hardware and data to be transported and installed.
Memory trick: Cold Site: Just a cold, empty room.