Definition - What does Standby mean?
Standby is a computer system or component mode in which a system is kept readily available in case an unexpected event occurs. A system may be on standby in case of failure, shortage or other similar events. Examples of standy include standby power, standby machine, standby server, standby mode, standby component, standby database and standby equipment.
Techopedia explains Standby
Failure of electronic components may result in an entire computer, system or network failure. In turn, that may adversely affect entire departments, divisions, corporations or customers in a business. Standby electronic components are critical to the operations of many organizations. Therefore, hardware and software engineers and programmers must create designs that allow for backup components and systems to provide backup services as needed in the event of component or system failure.