This guide is a great reference for server managers and administrators. It contains over 100 server management tips that will help you improve your productivity, sharpen your administrative skills, and save you hours of searching. With server management tips, you can easily keep your servers in top shape, whether you’re managing a large network or a single system.
Monitoring a server at all times
Server monitoring is important for a variety of reasons. Not only does it provide the necessary information to diagnose problems, it also helps reduce the overall response time of the web server. When a server is not performing as it should, it can disrupt the way users interact with it. This can cause customers to go elsewhere, and it can cost organizations sales.
The first step in server monitoring is to identify the metrics to monitor. This will vary depending on what type of server you have and what it’s supposed to do. For example, an application server would want to know how responsive it is, and a web server might want to keep tabs on the capacity and speed of data it stores.
In addition to monitoring a server’s performance, monitoring should also include other components of a server, such as its hardware, software, and configurations. If a server is running poorly, it can be a serious security risk. This is why it is important to set up a proactive monitoring tool. It will help you identify problems before they become critical to your business.
Regularly testing a UPS
A UPS can keep your servers online in the event of a power outage. A UPS should have a battery that runs for at least one minute, which will ensure that your servers are not affected by a power interruption. Regular testing of a UPS will help you determine if it is working properly and if it needs to be replaced. A UPS should have a manual or software to help you monitor the unit.
A UPS should have a battery that can last for many years if cared for properly. The battery should remain fully charged while plugged in, but batteries degrade over time. Therefore, it is essential to test the UPS regularly. Regular testing can be done with the help of networked software that most quality UPS vendors offer. This software allows you to test and monitor the backup remotely without disconnecting the unit from the server.
Regularly testing a UPS is an important server management tip. A UPS should be checked for any signs of overheating or damage, including any cabling and bypass panel. You should also examine the battery set for signs of corrosion or venting. Lastly, the UPS should be calibrated so that it works correctly. An incorrectly calibrated UPS will trigger an over-voltage alarm or show incorrect runtime data.
Regularly checking for unusual traffic spikes
When managing servers, regularly checking for traffic spikes can help you determine what is causing it. You can do this with a packet sniffer or a flow monitoring tool. For example, Paessler PRTG monitoring software includes packet sniffing and flow monitoring capabilities.
Unusual traffic spikes can come from several sources. Sometimes, they are benign, such as a group of developers who work late. Other times, it could be a bot or automated service accessing a site that should not be included in network traffic. However, the frequency at which they occur can be alarming.
Regularly testing a hard drive
The status of a hard drive can tell you a lot about its health. If it shows a Caution status, it probably won’t fail today, but it may fail in a few weeks. If you’re concerned, consider backing up your files before the drive fails.
To test the hard drive, you can run a command from the command prompt. Type in ‘chkdsk’ and press Enter. A small black box should appear. Then, type in the drive’s model and status. You should receive the result. If you receive a negative result, get a new hard drive.
Testing a hard drive is important for many reasons. The drive may be failing because it has bad sectors. Sometimes, bad sectors don’t show up until you look very closely. Other times, it might be showing signs of failure, but it may still be safe to use. If you notice any of these warning signs, you should back up your data and replace your hard drive with a new one.
