# ADR-019: Data Backup and Recovery Strategy

**Date**: 2025-12-12

**Status**: Proposed

## Context

The application's data, stored in PostgreSQL, is critical. Currently, there is no formalized or automated strategy for creating backups or for recovering data in the event of hardware failure, data corruption, or accidental deletion.

## Decision

We will implement a formal data backup and recovery strategy. This will involve using standard PostgreSQL tools (`pg_dump`) to perform **regular, automated backups** (e.g., daily). Backup files will be stored securely in a separate, off-site location (e.g., a cloud storage bucket). The ADR will also define the Recovery Time Objective (RTO) and Recovery Point Objective (RPO) and document the step-by-step procedure for restoring from a backup.

## Consequences

* **Positive**: Protects against catastrophic data loss, ensuring business continuity. Provides a clear, tested plan for disaster recovery.
* **Negative**: Requires setup and maintenance of backup scripts and secure storage. Incurs storage costs for backup files.
