What is it RTO & RPO
- RTO (Recovery Time Objective): The maximum amount of time your business can afford to be offline. Do you know what your RTO is
- RPO (Recovery Point Objective) How much data are you allowed to lose Two hours A day A week?
These definitions translate IT and backup terminology into business terms: how long can your business survive without systems, and how much information are you willing to lose without jeopardizing continuity?
Restoration Drills, Documentation, Backups & Procedures
- You have backups? Great. But when was the last time you confirmed they’re restorable?
- Do you have procedure for disaster recovery? Do employees know what to do?
- Is there up-to-date documentation of critical components — network topology, user accounts, system passwords?
In short: preparedness is not software — it’s a process. And that process is only validated during a crisis.
Coordination with External Vendors
- Do your suppliers know their role in an emergency?
- Do your vendors know what their role is in an emergency
- Do your contracts define SLAs for recovery
Without prior coordination, vendors can become a bottleneck in a crisis.
Access to Critical Documentation During Emergencies
- Can you access essential documentation remotely if your servers are compromised?
- Is there a cloud-based or physical copy of key resources — phonebooks, passwords, contracts?
- Does your management know where the emergency documentation is stored?
Self-Assessment Checklist (Recommended as a downloadable resource)
- Has a full recovery test been conducted in the past 12 months?
- Do you have an updated BCP with specific scenarios?
- Have you assigned a business continuity officer?
- Do vendor agreements include defined recovery time commitments?
- Have you conducted a tabletop or live simulation in the past year?
Summary: RTO & RPO
Business security is not measured only by your ability to prevent incidents — but by your ability to recover from them quickly. Every organization — large or small — must have a tested, updated, and documented BCP and DRP. Those who wait until the last moment often discover that it’s already too late.
Introduction
With the overwhelming number of cybersecurity tools, service providers, and buzzwords — how can you identify the individual or company that truly delivers value and keeps your business protected? This guide was written for decision-makers who want to ask the right questions before choosing a cybersecurity consultant.
Critical Questions:
- Does the consultant specialize in your sector (e.g., industrial, education, SMB)
- Do they provide an initial security report with clear recommendations?
- Does their service include ongoing guidance, or is it one-off consulting?
- Are they familiar with relevant regulations (GDPR, Israel’s Amendment 13)
What Else Should You Check??
- Proven experience — not just certifications
- Business-oriented mindset — not just tech jargon
- Emergency availability
- Ability to communicate clearly with executive leadership
Common Mistake: Choosing Based on Price Alone
Just like you wouldn’t choose a lawyer based solely on their hourly rate — don’t choose a cybersecurity consultant solely by price. You need a partner, not a technician.
Final Word
The right advisor is one who understands your business, leads a clear process, and leaves you in control. Don’t compromise.
