As the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reminds us, building a secure and resilient infrastructure is not just a best practice – it’s a necessity.
Here are three key strategies for fortifying your mainframe security and resilience.
1. Strengthen security and compliance with robust data management
Mainframes inherently provide a high level of security, particularly for data housed in centralized environments. However, in today’s hybrid-cloud landscapes, the challenges multiply as IT teams manage data flowing across diverse environments.
To maintain security and compliance:
- Encrypt sensitive data to add a critical layer of protection.
- Implement advanced authentication protocols to deter unauthorized access.
- Continuously monitor and audit data flows to ensure compliance with industry regulations.
- Monitor and maintain storage health standards for optimal performance.
Failing to protect critical data not only invites financial penalties but also risks irreparable reputational harm. A well-implemented data management strategy is the cornerstone of effective critical infrastructure and security and resilience (CISR) practices.
2. Develop and regularly test disaster recovery plans
It’s imperative to have security practices in place to protect against breaches, however, crises must be treated as inevitable. Whether caused by cyberattacks, human error, or natural disasters, disruptions can be devastating without a robust disaster recovery plan.
Key elements of a strong disaster recovery strategy include:
- Clear recovery playbooks tailored to specific crisis scenarios.
- Frequent backups and recovery drills to ensure minimal downtime.
- Comprehensive risk assessments to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
3. Identify and close gaps through training and strategic partnerships
Many organizations fall short of strong CISR practices—especially regarding the mainframe—due to talent shortages as experienced professionals retire and newer IT specialists focus on cloud technologies. This skills gap, coupled with misaligned processes or insufficient tools, can hinder an organization’s ability to implement strong CISR practices.
To address these challenges:
- Invest in ongoing training to up-skill teams on critical protocols and scenarios.
- Use documentation and clear communication practices to align IT teams during routine operations and crises.
- Identify and resolve technology gaps by deploying advanced tools that enable rapid data recovery and enhanced system resilience.
When gaps in expertise or technology arise, partnering with a trusted provider like Rocket Software can make all the difference. With decades of experience, Rocket Software offers the advanced data recovery tools, guidance, and expertise to help organizations implement best-in-class CISR practices and stay ahead of emerging threats.
Resilience starts with proactive measures
In today’s complex landscape, organizations can no longer afford to treat security and resilience as afterthoughts. By prioritizing strong data management, disaster recovery planning, and continuous improvement through training and partnerships, businesses can ensure their mainframe environments remain secure, compliant, and prepared for the unexpected.
Learn how Rocket Software can help your organization build a more resilient future.