29th Feb 2008
Are you keeping your server MAINTAINED?
Many organizations, once they have that “shiny new server” tend to somehow think that once it’s running they can just let it sit in that back room forever and it will be OK.
That is until it’s too late…..
Maintenance is a critical part of server management. By making sure that your server is up-to-date (operating system patches, and latest drivers) and free of security issues, you can prevent potential issues with your server.
So let’s list some “server maintenance basics” that everyone should be peforming to keep those server(s) in tip top shape:
Backups
It can’t be said enough how critical it is that all important data on your server be backed up in case the worst scenario should occur. You should always create a backup prior to any significant change within your operating system, drivers, or server applications. In addition, backups should be done on a regular schedule, depending upon how often your content changes. Of course, we recommend that you save your backups somewhere other than on the server itself.
Updates
Server updates and vulnerabilities can be found at any time, causing servers to become critically vulnerable. We recommend keeping all services and software up to date with the latest stable version available. Many server manufacturers have built in mechanisms to keep themselves updated. Review the documentation provided by your server vendor to ensure that all updates are compatible with your system.
Passwords
Good security includes use of very strong passwords; combinations of upper case and lower case letters along with numbers and special characters. Passwords should be at least 8 characters long and not spell a word found in the dictionary. Passwords should also be changed on a regular basis. Most security experts recommend changing your password every 60 – 90 days.
Anti-Virus
While servers that are not used for Web browsing or personal email use are less vulnerable to viruses, you should still protect your server from these threats. All content should be scanned as it enters the server with an Anti-Virus program.
Hardware
Most servers are a 24×7x365 operation. Because of this, the server hardware is more prone to failure over time due to dust, heat and other debris (we had one client that had a nest of beetles living in the server!). Servers need to have regular inspections, just like your automobile. Shutting down at least twice a year to perform a visual inspection and vacuuming out of “debris” (do not BLOW it out as that tends to push things into places you don’t want them to be), can many times be the difference between discovering a problem early and discovering a problem too late.
Following these simple maintenance steps will ensure that you spend more time being productive.
[...] Lisa Carey wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptAnti-Virus While servers that are not used for Web browsing or personal email use are less vulnerable to viruses, you should still protect your server from these threats. All content should be scanned as it enters the server with an … [...]
I found your blog on google and read a few of your other posts. I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the good work. Look forward to reading more from you in the future.
Tina Russell
[...] Lisa Carey wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptAnti-Virus While servers that are not used for Web browsing or personal email use are less vulnerable to viruses, you should still protect your server from these threats. All content should be scanned as it enters the server with an … [...]
[...] a NAS you don’t need to worry about server maintenance (read our previous article: Are you keeping your server maintained?) or vulnerabilities. Most NAS systems allow you basic file sharing and print functions. The more [...]