What type of system testing is typically required for a disaster recovery plan?

Regular and independent validation of a disaster recovery plan is crucial for ensuring that the strategies and procedures in place can effectively respond to unexpected disruptions. This validation process typically involves evaluating the plan against current business requirements, regulatory requirements, and technological changes. It ensures that all components of the disaster recovery strategy are still relevant and effective, and that staff are familiar with their roles and procedures.

Independent validation is important because it provides an objective view of the plan's effectiveness. External validation can also lead to improvements as diverse perspectives help identify weaknesses or gaps that internal teams might overlook. This regular assessment also supports compliance with regulatory requirements and helps ensure that organizations can recover swiftly and efficiently in the event of a disaster.

While other options also pertain to aspects of disaster recovery planning, such as annual reviews or functional testing, regular and independent validation specifically emphasizes the ongoing need to assess the plan’s effectiveness, making it the most relevant choice in the context of maintaining a robust disaster recovery strategy.