Network disaster recovery plans (DRPs) are just emerging as a business issue. The need to make contingency plans in case of a computer disaster, or major disruptions to the network, is a vital part of corporate strategy. Discusses the roles that users, IT management and staff must play. Identifies users as responsible directly for the problem of security and for establishing the levels of security; whereas IT management staff must be responsible for the availability of IT. Highlights what measures can be taken to set up network DRPs, although advises against too complex strategies and plans, and emphasizes easy‐to‐maintain strategies. Concludes that a corporate policy must be developed to accommodate all the changes needed in selecting an appropriate DRP.