A global blackout paralyzed airports, banks, and telecommunications on Friday. It was due to failures in Microsoft’s Windows operating system, but it can happen with any system.
A major IT failure turned the world upside down, affecting international airlines, railway companies, banks, and telecommunications industries. More than 25,000 flights ceased operation, raising the question: Can it happen again? Or could it be a catastrophe?
Since everything can fail and we depend almost 100% on cell phones and computers, we must be prepared in case another incident occurs. These accidents can even cause ATMs or communications to stop working, so we need to be ready.
How to Prepare at Home, in Your Business, and in Your City
1. Developing Contingency Plans
Personal and Family Level Planning
- Emergency Kit: Have an emergency kit with essential supplies such as non-perishable food, potable water, medicines, and hygiene items.
- Alternative Communication: Establish alternative communication methods, such as shortwave radios and prearranged meeting points.
- Cash on Hand: Keep a certain amount of cash, as electronic payment systems might not be available.
Business Level Planning
- Identification of Critical Processes: Determine which processes are essential for your business operation and develop plans to keep them running without IT systems.
- Communication Protocols: Establish clear protocols for internal and external communication during a crisis.
- Training and Drills: Train staff and conduct drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a global IT system failure.
2. Data Storage and Protection
Physical Backups
- Physical Media: Make backups on physical media such as external hard drives and USB drives, and store them in secure locations.
- Printed Documentation: Keep printed copies of important documents and critical procedure manuals.
Backup Systems
- Decentralized Infrastructure: Use decentralized infrastructure to avoid dependency on a single point of failure.
- Energy Storage: Implement backup energy systems, such as generators and solar panels, to keep essential systems operational.
3. Community Resilience Strategies
Local Support Networks
- Community Organizations: Collaborate with community organizations to establish support networks and shared resources.
- Education and Awareness: Participate in education and awareness programs about the importance of emergency preparedness.
Critical Infrastructure
- Strengthening Infrastructure: Work with local authorities to strengthen critical infrastructure, such as water, energy, and communication systems.
- Operational Continuity Plans: Develop operational continuity plans for essential services such as hospitals, emergency services, and public transportation.
4. Alternative and Resilient Technologies
Low-Tech Solutions
- Appropriate Technologies: Promote the use of low-tech and resilient technologies that do not rely on global IT infrastructure.
- Autonomous Networks: Implement autonomous networks that can operate independently of the global network, such as community mesh networks.
Innovation and Adaptability
- Research and Development: Support research and development of innovative and adaptable technologies that can function in global failure scenarios.
- Adoption of Best Practices: Adopt and disseminate best practices for technological resilience within the community and business environment.
