1. This chapter’s opening scenario illustrates a specific t…
1. This chapter’s opening scenario illustrates a specific type of incident/disaster. Using a Web browser, search for information related to preparing an organization against terrorist attacks. Look up information on (a) anthrax or another biological attack (like smallpox), (b) sarin or another toxic gas, (c) low-level radiological contamination attacks. 2. Using a Web browser, search for available commercial applications that use various forms of RAID technologies, such as RAID 0 through RAID 5. What is the most common implementation? What is the most expensive?
Preparing an organization against terrorist attacks is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety and security of its members and assets. In this context, it is crucial for organizations to be well-informed about potential threats and the necessary steps to mitigate them effectively. To address the first question, a search on preparing an organization against terrorist attacks can yield valuable information on anthrax or other biological attacks, like smallpox; sarin or other toxic gases, and low-level radiological contamination attacks.
(a) Anthrax or other biological attacks:
Anthrax is a potentially deadly infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. This type of attack involves the dissemination of anthrax spores to infect individuals and potentially cause mass casualties. Organizations can prepare for such attacks by implementing a comprehensive preparedness plan that includes measures such as training personnel on recognizing suspicious packages or mail, implementing strict security protocols for handling mail and packages, and collaborating with local law enforcement and government agencies to develop response plans.
Additionally, organizations can establish partnerships with public health departments or other relevant agencies to improve surveillance and monitoring capabilities. Setting up protocols for quickly collecting and analyzing environmental samples, enhancing communication systems to disseminate critical information rapidly, and establishing access to appropriate medical countermeasures are key elements of preparedness.
(b) Sarin or other toxic gas attacks:
Sarin is a highly toxic nerve agent that can cause severe health impacts or fatalities when released. Preparing for sarin or other toxic gas attacks entails various measures, such as establishing protocols for quickly recognizing and responding to a release, conducting regular training and drills for personnel, and implementing effective communication systems to ensure the prompt dissemination of critical information.
Organizations may also need to consider establishing air quality monitoring systems, providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to personnel, and developing protocols for decontamination in the event of an attack. Collaborating with local emergency responders and law enforcement agencies is vital for coordinating response efforts.
(c) Low-level radiological contamination attacks:
Low-level radiological contamination attacks involve the deliberate release of radioactive material or the dispersal of radioactive particles. Organizations can prepare for such attacks by ensuring that personnel receive appropriate training on recognizing signs of radiation exposure, implementing protocols for monitoring and assessing radiation levels, and establishing procedures for decontamination.
Collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies responsible for radiation safety and response is essential. Organizations should also consider securing resources such as radiation detection tools, establishing communication channels with relevant agencies, and developing plans for evacuation or shelter-in-place in the event of a radiological attack.
In regards to the second question, a search on commercial applications using RAID technologies can provide insights into the various RAID levels (0 through 5), their most common implementations, and their relative costs.
RAID, which stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is a technology that combines multiple physical disk drives into a single logical unit for improved performance, data redundancy, or a combination of both. RAID 0, also known as striping, distributes data across multiple drives in a way that enhances read and write performance but does not provide fault tolerance.
On the other hand, RAID 5, which uses striping with distributed parity, offers both improved performance and fault tolerance. It distributes data and parity information across multiple drives, allowing for the loss of one drive without the loss of data. RAID 5 is widely considered the most common implementation of RAID technology due to its balanced approach between performance and redundancy.
Regarding cost, the most expensive implementation of RAID technology is typically RAID 10 or RAID 50. RAID 10 combines RAID 1 mirroring and RAID 0 striping, providing a high level of both performance and data redundancy. RAID 50, also called RAID 5+0 or RAID 5 striping with distributed parity, combines the striping and parity of RAID 5 with the additional striping of RAID 0, offering enhanced performance and fault tolerance.
These RAID implementations may involve higher costs due to the increased number of drives required and the added complexity of data distribution, redundancy, and striping. However, the specific cost of RAID implementations can vary depending on factors such as the number of drives, the type and capacity of drives used, and the manufacturer or vendor pricing.