Rule: EC2 Instances Should Be Protected by Backup Plan
This rule emphasizes the need to secure EC2 instances with a backup plan to prevent data loss.
| Rule | EC2 instances should be protected by backup plan |
| Framework | NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) v1.1 |
| Severity | ✔ Medium |
Rule Description
EC2 instances should be protected by a backup plan in accordance with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) v1.
Backups are essential for ensuring the availability and recoverability of data in the event of data loss, system failures, or cyber attacks. Implementing a backup plan is one of the key requirements for safeguarding the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data, as outlined in the NIST CSF.
Troubleshooting Steps (if applicable)
If an EC2 instance is not protected by a backup plan, follow these troubleshooting steps:
- 1.
Check the existing backup configurations or policies for EC2 instances.
- 2.
Verify if regular backups are being performed according to the defined schedule.
- 3.
Confirm that the backup storage is appropriately configured and has sufficient capacity.
- 4.
Ensure that the backup plan includes all critical data and configurations required for business continuity.
- 5.
Review logs and monitoring systems for any backup failures, errors, or warnings.
- 6.
Check if the backup plan aligns with the NIST CSF requirements for data protection.
Necessary Codes (if applicable)
No specific code snippets are required for this rule. However, you may need to use AWS CLI commands to manage and configure backup plans.
Step-by-Step Guide for Remediation
Follow these steps to ensure EC2 instances are protected by a backup plan in compliance with the NIST CSF:
- 1.
Identify Critical Data and Configuration: Determine the data and configuration files that are crucial for the operation and continuity of your EC2 instances. This may include databases, application configurations, user files, and system files.
- 2.
Define Backup Frequency: Determine the suitable backup frequency based on your recovery objectives. Consider factors like data volatility and the frequency of updates to the critical files.
- 3.
Select Backup Storage: Choose an appropriate storage solution for your backups. This could be Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3), Amazon Elastic File System (EFS), or other relevant storage services within AWS.
- 4.
Configure Backup Plan: Using AWS Backup service or other backup tools, create a backup plan that aligns with the NIST CSF requirements. Configure the backup frequency, retention policies, and target storage.
- 5.
Assign Backup Plan to EC2 Instances: Associate the backup plan with the desired EC2 instances. This can be done using tags or by explicitly selecting the instances.
- 6.
Test Backup and Restore Procedures: Regularly test the backup and restore procedures to ensure they function as intended. Consider performing periodic drills to validate the recoverability of critical data.
- 7.
Monitor Backup Jobs: Set up monitoring for backup job status and notifications for any failures or warnings. This will help ensure timely rectification of any issues that may arise during backup operations.
- 8.
Periodically Review and Update: Regularly review and update your backup plan to accommodate any changes in the system or data. This includes adding new instances, modifying backup schedules, or adjusting retention policies.
By following these steps, you can establish a robust backup plan for your EC2 instances, ensuring compliance with the NIST CSF requirements and enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture of your organization.