How are RPOs utilized?

Recovery Point Objectives work to minimize data loss and impact on operations, so they inform the backup processes of organizations. A company will determine the appropriate tolerable threshold for data loss and set its backup frequency accordingly to provide consistent access to essential recovery points. Depending on the nature of an organization’s systems, databases, and operations, the timeframe determined can vary considerably.

Establishing RPOs is a way for organizations to systematically prioritize the backup of systems and data assets. Additionally, it guides decision-making on which technologies are required. Some organizations may require solutions for automated or incremental backups, for instance, while others may require cloud-based backup and recovery solutions. When a security instance occurs, these measures are then put into action to ensure that data assets are restored to their most recent acceptable state.

How Are RPOs Calculated?

To calculate Recovery Point Objectives, organizations take a variety of different factors into account, such as data type, the regularity of changes in that data, and the degree to which a loss of data can be tolerated without impacting operations. The following is a general guideline for the process of calculation Recovery Point Objectives:

1. Identify data: An organization will conduct an inventory of its data assets and their respective functions. The more critical the function, the higher the priority for backup and recovery should be, and the lower the eventual RPO will be.

2. Gauge data change frequency: With data types identified, the organization will perform an evaluation to determine how often each data type changes. Data that changes frequently will require more frequent backups so as to minimize potential data loss.

3. Assess data loss tolerance: Organization stakeholders assess the loss tolerance for each data type. Depending on the nature of the organization and its operations, some data types may be considered critical and will have a tolerance close to zero, which will mean an RPO of minutes or even seconds. For others, thresholds may be higher, allowing for less frequent backups.

4. Establish backup measures: Once the organization's data loss tolerance has been determined, stakeholders and security teams work to put appropriate backup technologies and protocols in place to align with the needs of the company.

Once all of the relevant variables have been assessed and backup capabilities have been selected, organization stakeholders can set an RPO timeframe that meets backup and recovery needs.

What is the difference between a Recovery Point Objective and a Recovery Time Objective?

Recovery Point Objective (RPO) and Recovery Time Objective (RTO) are both concepts of recovery and continuity planning. However, they serve separate functions. RPOs relate to data loss, specifically denoting the acceptable length of time from which data can be restored in the event of a security incident. RTOs, on the other hand, do not pertain to data loss. Rather, an RTO is the intended duration of recovery, from the point of an incident to the resumption of normal operations. RPOs and RTOs are different but related metrics. When used in tandem, they enable organizations to systematize and optimize their backup and recovery processes for greater operational continuity.