Integrating Virtualization and Cloud Services into a Multi-Tier, Multi-Location Information System Business Continuity Plan

Abstract

After surviving two significant natural disasters, and numerous man-made ones, virtualizing both of our data centers and installing a geo-clustered private cloud seemed like the perfect way to keep critical systems running during the next major disaster. While implementing our newly minted disaster recovery plan, it became apparent that our strategy was flawed and growing in complexity beyond acceptable limits. Incorporating lessons learned from traditional disaster recovery and business continuity planning, this paper outlines steps to create a plan to match virtualization and cloud tools to a multi-tier, multilocation infrastructure that maximizes the delivery of services under unforeseen events.