Sample Server Maintenance Checklist
Sample Server Maintenance Checklist
I. Hardware Checks
Inspect Physical Hardware
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Ensure all server components are properly connected and secure.
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Check for any visible wear, dust, or damage.
Temperature and Cooling System
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Verify the server room temperature and ventilation are within optimal ranges.
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Inspect cooling fans and ventilation systems to confirm they’re working effectively.
Power Supply and Battery Backup
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Test the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) and confirm it provides backup in case of power failures.
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Ensure power cables are intact and properly connected.
II. Software Updates
Operating System Updates
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Check for and install any OS patches or updates.
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Ensure all updates are compatible with server applications.
Application and Software Updates
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Update essential server applications to their latest versions.
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Remove or replace outdated or unused software that could pose security risks.
Firmware Updates
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Verify if firmware updates are available for server hardware (e.g., BIOS, RAID controllers).
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Apply firmware updates as needed, following best practices for installation.
III. Security Checks
Access Control
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Review and update user access permissions to ensure compliance with security policies.
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Disable or remove accounts for inactive users or employees who have left the organization.
Firewall and Antivirus Protection
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Ensure firewall configurations are up-to-date and functioning properly.
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Run antivirus scans and confirm that the antivirus definitions are current.
Vulnerability Scans and Patch Management
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Conduct a vulnerability scan to identify potential security risks.
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Apply any critical patches that address vulnerabilities.
IV. Backup and Recovery
Verify Backups
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Confirm that regular backups are being created without errors.
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Ensure backup files are stored securely and are protected from unauthorized access.
Test Recovery Process
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Perform a test recovery to verify that data can be restored successfully.
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Document any issues encountered during the recovery test and resolve them.
Backup Schedule Review
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Check that the backup schedule meets business continuity requirements.
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Update the backup plan if there have been changes in data volume or critical assets.
V. Performance Monitoring
CPU, Memory, and Disk Usage
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Review server CPU, memory, and disk usage to identify any unusual spikes or bottlenecks.
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Optimize resource allocation based on current server workload.
Network Traffic Analysis
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Monitor network traffic for any unusual or high-usage patterns.
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Identify and address any potential bandwidth issues or network bottlenecks.
Storage Capacity
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Check available disk space and forecast storage needs based on usage trends.
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Clean up unnecessary files or data to free up storage as needed.
VI. Log Review
Error and Event Logs
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Review error logs and event logs for unusual activities or repeated errors.
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Address recurring issues and document resolutions.
Access and Security Logs
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Analyze access logs to detect any unauthorized access attempts.
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Document and report any security incidents identified in the logs.
System Health Logs
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Check for warnings or errors related to hardware performance and system health.
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Resolve any identified issues to maintain server stability and performance.
