We have all heard the saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. This is especially true when the topic of server maintenance comes up.
All too often, I have worked on Linux servers that were woefully out of date, or that didn’t have a backup plan in place. Sometimes a client’s initial problem could have been fixed easier and cheaper just by following some routine maintenance tasks. At a minimum, here is a list of things that should be done monthly to maintain a Linux server:
These simple maintenance tasks can help prevent ugly surprises (no one likes those), and increase server uptime. In addition, the installation of Operating System updates helps keep your server secure (the second most common compromise method is through insecure software). Most of us know the security impacts of not installing security updates on our workstations- why not carry over that mentality to your server?
Also, it wouldn’t hurt to occasionally check for updates on software which might not come from your Linux distributor (such as WordPress, PhpBB, etc). Too often, my clients will think that their site is secure, only to be surprised when an old exploit is used against their blogging or forum software.
The best part about regular server maintenance is that is isn’t really expensive when compared to the cost of fixing an out of date server. My own Linux server maintenance services start at just $25. The nice thing about the way that I have organized this offering, is that it gives my clients choices as to the level of maintenance that is performed on their server monthly. Some of my clients prefer little more than Operating System updates, while others sleep better at night knowing that their server’s security has not been compromised. In addition, I also email my clients monthly reports, which let my clients know exactly what is going on with their servers. I have example reports available for the Basic, Advanced, and Premium maintenance plans.
Which plan you decide is best for your server is entirely your choice- but I’m a big fan of the advanced maintenance plan. It combines the most common (and important) maintenance tasks together, in a package price that’s easy to afford. The important thing to remember is that no matter who works on your server, it is maintained in a sensible and responsible manner. Nothing is worse than a disaster that could have been avoided with routine maintenance!
