Top Server Monitoring Best Practices to Stay Ahead of Problems!
Conducting a best practice standard review for servers and platforms is no easy task. And yet, such reviews are essential for maintaining optimal performance of your server. Even security, and reliability in your IT infrastructure will depend on the quality and thoroughness of these reviews. Here are the key aspects we at Sensoft Solutions consider for such a review.
IT monitoring Best Practices - Sensoft Solutions
Using this form of IT infrastructure involves the implementation of tools that assist you in managing routine tasks with automated processes that regularly install updates for your software, patches to augment security and streamline dataflow, and backing up data to prevent data loss in case of extenuating circumstances.
Is there 100% Compatibility?
We will first need to ensure that all server components are compatible with each other. This will also include testing the compatibility of the components with the workloads they will support.
Is there a system of redundancy?
We ensure that the Implementation of redundancy for critical components is in place and functional for when the power fails. We will suggest redundancies in power supplies, network interfaces, and storage devices to minimize the possibility and risk attributed to single points of failure.
Is Resource Allocation performing as intended?
Your network’s resources are your organization’s lifeblood. So its important to Properly allocate CPU, memory, and storage based on the requirements of the web applications and services hosted on the servers.
Are your Updates and Patches Current?
We’ll review to see if your Server and platform regularly have updates and security patches to protect the operating system against vulnerabilities.
Configuration Streamlining?
The goal here is to check if the server conforms to security best practices for getting the very best results out of the operating system. This would include disabling unnecessary services, securing default accounts, and implementing strong password policies.
When was the last Software Update?
We’re here to let you know to ensure all installed applications and services are up to date with the latest patches and versions available for maximum efficiency.
Is there adequate configuration management?
The effective use of configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Chef) is one of the best ways to maintain consistent configurations.
Is there room for Performance Tuning?
We’ll help you tune applications and service configurations. Why? For optimal performance of course! Along with application-specific settings, this also involves database optimization and web server tuning.
Is the Firewall and Access Control configuration working?
Organizations tend to Implement firewall rules and access control lists (ACLs) to restrict network traffic to and from the server. We are here to make sure that that’s exactly whats happening.
What is the status of Intrusion Detection and Prevention?
The Deployment of intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) are monitored to ensure they are in place and working as intended.
Is there Regular Log Management?
It’s important to Centralize logging so an organization can regularly review logs for signs of unusual activity or security incidents.
Does the Server have Regular Backups?
The Implementation of a robust backup strategy is vital to any server or platform’s survival. That means we’ll check to see if there are regular backups of critical data and system configurations.
Every server needs a Disaster Recovery Plan, whats yours?
We’re here to help you develop and regularly test a disaster recovery plan Failures happen, and we can’t always control them. So the next best thing is to ensure quick restoration of services in the event of a failure or disaster.
Are you using Secure Offsite Storage?
We’ll check to see if you’re storing backups in a secure offsite location. This is an excellent method to protect against data loss from physical damage or theft.
When was the last server Health Check?
Implementing regular health checks for critical and even non-critical applications is one of the best ways to ensure they are running as expected.
Does the server conform to Regulatory Compliance?
This is important. Not only does it secure the server, it is mandatory in many cases! Failing to Ensure that server and platform configurations comply with relevant regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) is a good way to invite trouble in many forms.
Is there precise Documentation?
We would strongly recommend maintaining comprehensive documentation of server configurations. This would also extend to hardware specifications, network settings, installed software, and security policies. Documenting any changes made should become standard practice.
With Sensoft Solutions, you’ll find that reviewing your server and platform, and Implementing the recommended best practices will help ensure that your servers and platforms are performing at their very best. It is our desire to ensure that your server stays secure, efficient, and reliable with positive long-term results.
Aiming to improve your IT infrastructure? Our staff is here to assist you with your inquiries, professional advice, and tailored solutions. Send us a message and we'll be ready to protect your business data!
