(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What type of testing switches primary operations to the alternate environment and can be quite disruptive?

1. Parallel tests

2. Full Interruption tests

3. Disaster recovery drills

4. Walkthrough tests

The correct answer is: Full Interruption tests

The testing method that involves switching primary operations to an alternate environment and can be quite disruptive is known as Full Interruption tests. This type of testing is essential in disaster recovery planning because it validates the effectiveness of the recovery plan by simulating a real disaster scenario where the primary site is completely shut down and operations are moved to the backup site. During a Full Interruption test, systems and processes that are usually operational at the primary site are fully halted, which allows teams to verify that they can maintain essential operations from the alternate location. This level of disruption is significant because it tests the resilience of the organization’s operations, highlighting any weaknesses or flaws that need addressing before a real disaster occurs. In contrast, parallel tests typically involve running operations simultaneously at both the primary and alternate sites without causing a disruption, thus retaining some level of operational functionality. Disaster recovery drills often involve practicing the procedures without fully switching operations, and walkthrough tests are more about reviewing plans and procedures rather than actual execution in a disruptive manner. Therefore, the Full Interruption test stands out as the method that genuinely disrupts operations to ensure full operational capability and recovery from a disaster scenario.