Data center ops, monitoring and management
Data center operations are the fundamental workflows that keep a data center operating. Monitoring and management of data center resources comprise the most central data center ops. Learn more about data center software and best practices for monitoring and managing devices and equipment across the data center.
Top Stories
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Tip
18 Nov 2024
Understand the power usage effectiveness metric
Data center admins must monitor power efficiency through PUE metrics. There are three PUE levels, with PUE 1.0 as the best. However, various conditions can impact the rating. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2024
Data center cooling systems and technologies and how they work
Extreme heat and cold can keep equipment from operating at peak efficiency. Explore cost-efficient and cost-effective cooling technologies and smart options for your facility. Continue Reading
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News
02 Nov 2018
In IBM deal's wake, Red Hat RHEL 7.6 targets hybrid cloud
After its acquisition by IBM, Red Hat wasted little time unveiling the next version of its flagship product, RHEL 7.6, which supports hybrid clouds and updated security. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Oct 2018
Research advances data center liquid cooling tech
You might want to investigate alternatives to water and fans to keep your data center cool. Still, there are costs and environmental concerns facing researchers and IT administrators. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2018
A look at fundamental Linux sed commands
The Linux stream editor is a useful way to run scripts in the data center. With these command examples, you can start to build your familiarity with sed. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Oct 2018
What are some useful remote server management tools?
Choosing software for remote server monitoring and maintenance depends on organizational and administrative needs. Here are a few programs to include in your search. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2018
Minimize downtime during a data center upgrade
End users don't want their productivity interrupted by IT maintenance. With the right technology, testing and planning, you can reduce or eliminate downtime in the data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2018
Navigate data center management software selection
Software evaluation can be a lengthy process, especially with both open source and commercial options. Functionality and support can help you form a short list of possibilities. Continue Reading
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Opinion
20 Sep 2018
Nvidia partnership bolsters VMware live migration capabilities
As part of vSphere 6.7.1, admins can now live migrate virtualized workloads supported by vGPUs. The Nvidia and VMware partnership improves high-capacity management capabilities. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Sep 2018
Can I use server automation for remote management?
Depending on your server management workflow, you might want to consider automation and orchestration. Before going forward, you should figure out what scripts are necessary. Continue Reading
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News
14 Sep 2018
GPU-buffed servers advance Cisco's AI agenda
Cisco's latest UCS servers with Nvidia's GPUs aim to help larger IT shops more quickly run AI and machine learning workloads -- and help Cisco keep pace with Dell and HPE. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2018
Discovery functions, FIPS compliance increase DCIM security
Data center infrastructure management is one way to track security patches and unauthorized hardware access. There are a few features you can use to increase security. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Sep 2018
Data center admins gain the benefits of microservices
Microservices bring perks to data center infrastructures, especially when it comes to long-term maintenance. But admins need to properly evaluate it before implementation. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Aug 2018
Which basic Linux file management commands should I know?
File management is an essential part of working within Linux. Knowing a few basic commands makes it easier to move content and avoid file misplacement. Continue Reading
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News
27 Aug 2018
Dell EMC HCI gear pushes multi-cloud strategy
Dell EMC will use its HCI systems when it bundles software to encourage multi-cloud environments and push adoption of the company's own multi-cloud strategy. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Aug 2018
Getting started with Linux containers
Linux-based containers allow you to run applications in the data center without modifying OSes. If you're not sure how to get started, options such as Docker and CoreOS can help. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Aug 2018
14 SIEM reports and alerts to boost security
Setting up an SIEM reporting infrastructure requires an overall knowledge of what data capture is available. With standard reports and event categories, you can ease implementation. Continue Reading
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News
10 Aug 2018
IBM Power9 servers add reliability, reduce maintenance costs
IBM looks to grab high-end hardware market share from archrival Intel with the introduction of two Power9 servers that offer greater uptime and reduced maintenance costs. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Aug 2018
Accelerated processing units advance data center performance
As you come across more complex data center workflows, you can begin exploring options for accelerated processing, such as GPUs or TPUs. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Aug 2018
How do I protect my OS with Linux security features?
Linux has a security framework with multiple layers, which makes it hard to maintain permissions and privileges. User-based profiles and whitelisting can help you oversee OS access and give you peace of mind. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jul 2018
Choose the cloud computing deployment model that fits your data center needs
Organizations looking to the cloud to update their data center should consider the future development of systems management providers when selecting a cloud computing deployment model. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jul 2018
SDDC architecture basics and deployment considerations
Software-defined data centers accelerate hardware provisioning and maintenance. These benefits are reason enough for admins to familiarize themselves with SDDC components. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jul 2018
GPUs, FPGAs increase software-defined data center performance
Some applications in your SDDC might need special hardware so they can function at their best. GPUs and FPGAs are an effective way to increase performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2018
Four top open source SIEM tools you should know
Open source SIEM software offers organizations a way to test capabilities and augment existing functionalities for analytics and log management. Get started with these options. Continue Reading
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News
16 Jul 2018
Rackspace colocation program hosts users' legacy servers
Rackspace now has a managed colocation program that it hopes to upsell its customers with additional services, once their servers are in-house. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jul 2018
Broadcom acquisition of CA seeks broader portfolio
Broadcom has acquired CA Technologies in a move some believe is largely financially motivated, while others see an opportunity for the companies to integrate core offerings. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jul 2018
Ten Linux process management commands that simplify admin workflows
If you work in Linux, chances are you have to do some process management. Here are some commands to simplify that workflow. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jul 2018
Managed private cloud gives IT a cost-effective option
Cloud evaluation requires planning and cost analysis. With available technology and managed service providers, IT can reduce long-term expenditures and management headaches. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jul 2018
Agile workflows shift admins' IT procurement strategy
Changing business needs and the move toward Agile workflows affect how data center managers make decisions about daily operations and IT purchasing. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jul 2018
Dell's return to public markets sidesteps VMware query
In a complex stock deal Dell once again becomes a public company to flex its muscles against major legacy IT rivals, but sidesteps questions about VMware's autonomy. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jun 2018
SIEM software basics and use cases for IT administrators
Security information and event management products use algorithms to stop cyberattacks in their tracks, but they also offer other workflow benefits for admins. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jun 2018
Why data centers need log management tools
Log files contain rich and useful management data. With the right software tools and a few navigation tips, you can maximize and implement the information that logs provide. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jun 2018
HPE gives its memory-driven computing initiative another try
HPE has brought its memory-driven computing architecture back into the spotlight, this time with a little help from its friends to meet enterprises' future IT infrastructure needs. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jun 2018
HPE edge computing strategy reroutes data, apps around the cloud
HPE's edge computing strategy hinges on converged infrastructure systems to help enterprises manage data outside their data centers and the cloud, and help the company regain market traction. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Jun 2018
Build your PowerShell command cheat sheet with these basics
Even if you've previously used PowerShell, it's beneficial to add new commands to your reference sheet and keep your overall knowledge as current as possible. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jun 2018
Open source log management options for Linux distributions
Open source log management tools provide a variety of options and capabilities for admins who want customizable Linux log management functions in a server or cloud environment. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jun 2018
Data center monitoring best practices simplify software choice
Metrics are essential to keep any data center operating smoothly. With monitoring software and best practices, admins can simplify their workflows and get usable data. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jun 2018
What to know before selecting DCIM software
Your DCIM needs will dictate what type of software is best for your workflow. Be sure to evaluate usability, expandability and which areas need monitoring. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2018
Work a command-line interface in Linux with these permissions and prompts
The command-line interface is an integral part of the Linux management environment. With sudo permissions and remote connectivity, working with a command line is easy. Continue Reading
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News
01 Jun 2018
IBM's Cloud Private for Data brings on-prem data closer to the cloud
IBM rolled out its Cloud Private for Data platform designed to make it easier for users' on-premises data to interact with not just IBM's public cloud, but those of AWS and Google. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2018
Easily read a log file in Linux with command-line tools
Depending on the specific Linux distribution you use, there is a variety of commands to help you locate, read and search log files within related program components. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2018
Web server management best practices and essential features
There are a lot of tools on the market for web-based server management. To find the best product, look for functions that automate workflows and add security. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2018
Top 4 advantages of a command-line interface
With the simple look of the command-line interface, organizations don't always realize the advantages it brings to systems through pointed, accurate commands. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 May 2018
Get to know SIEM software basics and benefits
Security information and event management tools give organizations enhanced network management functionality, such as automatic reporting, data stream analysis and anomaly detection. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2018
Hadoop cluster configuration best practices streamline workflows
Organizations that deal with a variety of Hadoop configurations can streamline workflows through baseline configuration, tests and site-specific configuration files. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 May 2018
How is RHEL in the cloud different than in the data center?
Implementing RHEL in the cloud isn't exactly the same as using cloud technology in the data center, especially when addressing swap and support concerns. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 May 2018
SIEM benefits include automated monitoring, malware mitigation
SIEM tools deliver automated alert actions, normalize log data and provide intelligent filtering, all of which can help IT administrators lighten their workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2018
Hadoop cluster capacity planning best practices
Trying to calculate Hadoop cluster capacities isn't always straightforward. It's important for organizations to include IOPS and compression rates in their predictions. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 May 2018
Decide which application monitor software is right for you
Organizations that want to implement application monitoring tools should consider how the tool gathers and reports information, as well as the purchase and licensing costs Continue Reading
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Feature
01 May 2018
Systems management software heads for the cloud
Systems management providers are pushing their on-premises offerings to the cloud, as well as developing or acquiring pure cloud-based software in hopes of staying relevant. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Apr 2018
What are the top SIEM use cases?
SIEM tools help organizations detect and mitigate malware and viruses, but they also allow administrators to offload traffic when an attack hampers performance. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Apr 2018
What are the options for log management in Linux?
Linux administrators should use syslog and systemd-journald together for smart log analysis. But there are also open source log management tools to consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2018
Guide to buying server performance monitor software
Integration, storage and vendor support all affect whether a performance monitoring tool is right for an organization. Mull over these ten factors to choose the right one. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2018
How IBM's data science team quickens users' AI projects
In this Q&A, IBM's Seth Dobrin discusses the rising user interest in machine learning and AI projects and the help inexperienced users need to launch those projects. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Apr 2018
Should my organization consider systems management services?
IT staff have a lot on their plate, so outsourcing systems management to a third party might be appealing. But organizations must choose a reputable provider that meets their needs. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2018
Ireland's data centers are strategic connection hubs for Interxion
Interxion's Dublin-based data center business continues to grow as an increasing number of American and European companies see Ireland as a strategic connection hub. Continue Reading
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Opinion
29 Mar 2018
Organizations don't have to pick private or public cloud
Organizations don't necessarily have to decide between using a public or private cloud. For some companies, the answer is both. For others, it's neither. Continue Reading
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News
20 Feb 2018
IBM Power9 servers seek market inroads to AI, cloud
IBM follows up its first Power9 server with a raft of systems designed to appeal to a wider array of markets -- most notably, AI and cloud deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2018
Three requirements for a hybrid cloud computing deployment
As the hybrid cloud computing approach gains steam, organizations will need to pay close attention to cross-cloud connectivity and management, plus microservices. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2017
With Btrfs file system gone in RHEL 8, look at alternatives
In the XFS, Ext4, Btrfs and ZFS comparison, Linux users will say goodbye to Btrfs in RHEL 8. Learn more about your options and what can fill the gaps once development halts. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Oct 2017
How to choose a live kernel patching extension
Ksplice and kpatch offer similar live kernel patching services on a Linux system, but differences between function-level services and technical support showcase their differences. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Sep 2017
Install Ubuntu Core successfully with these steps
An Ubuntu Core installation can often prove tricky for IT teams. Use these step-by-step instructions to properly install the platform for a more secure Docker environment. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jun 2017
Follow these steps to assign vSphere permissions and roles
Admins can use vSphere permissions to assign VM controls to different IT groups within their enterprise. Follow the networking example below to get started. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2017
Linux distros (Linux distribution)
A Linux distribution -- often shortened to "Linux distro" -- is a version of the open source Linux operating system that is packaged with other components, such as an installation programs, management tools and additional software such as the KVM hypervisor. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Apr 2017
How can I prevent data loss during a Linux distribution upgrade?
It's important to prevent data loss during a Linux OS upgrade. How can partitions or disk drives help IT teams meet that goal? Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2017
Use a Linux file system journal for data integrity, performance
Understand the three different file system journaling modes for Linux, as well as which mount option provides the best levels of data protection and performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2016
Compare the best Linux distros for enterprise servers
Any of the popular Linux distributions can run on enterprise servers, but here's how to decide which is best for you. Compare SUSE, Red Hat, Oracle and Ubuntu Linux OSes. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2016
Consider these Linux I/O scheduler options for storage performance
To optimize Linux performance, IT teams should examine the I/O scheduler currently in use, and evaluate alternatives, such as deadline and Completely Fair Queuing. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Sep 2016
Manage Btrfs snapshots with the SUSE Snapper utility
Learn how to use Btrfs snapshots with Linux utilities, such as Snapper and GRUB2, to revert back to previous states in the event of a configuration mishap. Continue Reading
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Quiz
08 Aug 2016
Test your knowledge of useful Linux commands with this quiz
Think you're an expert on useful Linux commands for network and server management? Try your hand at this Linux command quiz to see how much you know about 10 Linux utilities and their use cases. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2016
Five tools to enable Linux automation, monitoring and backup
When it comes to Linux data center tools, there is no shortage of options. For automation, backup and monitoring, consider these five Linux tools first. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jun 2016
Six helpful Linux networking commands to monitor connectivity
There are plenty of useful Linux tools to help in the event of a network connection failure. Here are six of the top commands to stay ahead when trouble occurs. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Apr 2016
How do I convert CPU hours to MIPS for mainframe capacity planning?
For better mainframe capacity planning, how do I convert CPU hours to MIPS? And is there a way to calculate the relationship between MIPS and MSUs? Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2016
Ten server deployment checklist considerations
Use this server deployment checklist to make sure you've covered all your bases. From power distribution outlets to available network connectivity, server deployment can be an arduous process. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2016
The Linux ip command makes network config easy
The Linux ip command makes monitoring a Linux network configuration easy, but you need to know what to look for. Continue Reading
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Guide
28 Oct 2015
Data center metrics and standards guide
From energy use to server performance, data center metrics form a foundation for improving IT operations. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Sep 2015
How do you verify a HA server or cluster is working?
I want to ensure server high availability in my production IT environment. Is it better to test server HA and risk disruption, or trust in the systems' reliability? Continue Reading
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News
27 Aug 2015
HP Enterprise has work cut out following split
With the split two months away, HP Enterprise needs to ensure its hardware, software and services groups work and play better together. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Jul 2015
Help! I deleted a Linux boot partition
I deleted a partition on my Linux system, but I still see a boot menu. How do I re-install GRUB2 and not lose data? Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2015
Build Linux from scratch to improve admin skills
There's a sure-fire way to increase your knowledge about the Linux kernel and how to troubleshoot Linux servers: Build one yourself. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2015
Checklist of IT KPIs for responsive data center ops
The right metrics, aligned with business needs, strengthen data center monitoring and capacity planning. KPIs orient IT performance to specific goals. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Mar 2015
How do I configure vSphere HA for automatic failover?
I want to install a virtualization environment with physical servers for failover and a storage server to boot up some virtual servers in our network. How can I do this? Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Feb 2015
Master Linux service management on System V and systemd
Managing services on Linux is an essential task for administrators. Learn to work with either System V or systemd. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Jan 2015
Can you virtualize a NetBackup master server?
I have only seen companies deploy a NetBackup master server on a physical server. Are there any drawbacks to using a VM as a NetBackup master server? Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jan 2015
Big data and analytics advice from an operations pro
You don't need to employ special IT personnel for big data analytics. One company uses big data for developers to modify ads and find and adjust pain-points in a game application. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jan 2015
Linux network configuration turns positively wicked
Wicked replaces a lot of old Linux network configuration commands and utilities in SLES 12, making the OS more cloud friendly. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Dec 2014
Data center maps lead IT to server treasure
Can't find the server that needs repairs or the right reboot button when the host blue-screens? A data center map is vital when disaster hits. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Nov 2014
How do you define data center size, density?
With shifts in the scale and density of data centers, one industry organization is drawing up ways to standardize how we talk about data center size and power needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2014
A data center checklist for facility design and IT ops
Choose the right data center provider or facility now, and prevent costly errors and inadequate services later. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Oct 2014
Create a SAN with the Linux LIO iSCSI target
With the LIO iSCSI target service, Linux shops have an affordable SAN option that ranks up there with expensive proprietary storage solutions. Continue Reading
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Quiz
16 Sep 2014
How well do you know the ITIL v3 framework?
Test how well your team knows its roles and responsibilities with this ITIL quiz. It might help you handle future IT service problems. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Aug 2014
Business application hosting on-premises vs. cloud options
Is it better to look for a SaaS version of an app, put it in your own data center on existing equipment, or host it at a cloud provider for a mix of flexible scaling and IT ownership? Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jul 2014
Denser is better: Increased storage and server density
For storage and servers, being dense is good. Careful planning can maximize the benefits of greater computing densities while minimizing potential risks. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jul 2014
Mount file system Linux systemd's way
Forget about /etc/fstab and autofs. There's a new Linux system around. Systemd manages mounting and automounting of file systems differently. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jun 2014
A few ways to configure Linux firewalld
The method for configuring Linux servers' firewalls changed with RHEL 7 and other new distributions. Learn how to set up firewalld, and what to avoid. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jun 2014
What to look for in a Tier III data center provider
Don't believe just any sweet-talking colo provider claiming to be Tier III. Make sure you're getting what you pay for with a true Tier III data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jun 2014
How many VMs per host is too many?
The ultimate host server welcomes hundreds of virtual machines. But that doesn't mean consolidation should outrank performance. Continue Reading
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Quiz
05 Jun 2014
Test your Uptime Tier level knowledge
You've got a lot riding on Uptime Tier-certified data centers. Take this quiz to see how well you know Tiers I through IV. Continue Reading
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Guide
30 May 2014
What's the best Linux OS for your enterprise data center?
With several updates to supported Linux OSes, how do you know which to run in your data center? This guide will help you make an informed decision. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Apr 2014
Linux boot options in RHEL, SLES help ailing servers
Is your server not booting correctly? Does it need crucial recovery tasks? Linux boot options with GRUB2 and systemd can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Feb 2014
Mount Global File System 2, avoid corruption in RHEL High Availability
You have a working cluster, now what? Red Hat's GFS2 will help you avoid file system corruption. Learn how to mount the default cluster file system. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Feb 2014
Getting started with ITIL service management
Promised cost savings, alignment with business, and operational efficiency are encouraging more organizations to take up ITIL service management. Continue Reading