Network and server monitoring is a fundamental part of managed IT services. For applications to run at peak performance, server hardware must be working well. Challenges increase as networks get larger and more complex, and the need for network visibility grows.

As a leading provider of managed IT services, Vivio Technologies provides network and server monitoring as part of our SysOps Support. We understand the need for highly competent 24/7 monitoring. Here are some of the potential issues that can be avoided with proper monitoring:

Running Low on Disk Space

Software applications are now a part of nearly every company’s DNA. As the reliance on software continues to grow so does the volume of data. Application processing and response time grows along with the data volume. Low disk space impacts the ability of your software and servers to perform. It’s more than an inconvenience. When servers run out of disk space, the system slows and transactions fail. Websites shut down. With disk space monitoring, you can set up an alert at a specific usage percentage and give yourself some extra time to evaluate your disk space needs. This allows you to make proactive decisions to keep your server running smoothly.

Systems Running Constantly at High CPU Usage

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of your server. The CPU has a finite capacity to manage processing requests from applications running on your network. High CPU usage slows down your servers and new requests must wait until there’s capacity to process more. There are lots of reasons for high CPU usage, including inefficient applications, virus scans, or from malware that has infected the server. CPU monitoring can be set for specific lengths of time to watch for unusually high usage trends so that you can be proactive and prevent servers from getting bogged down.

Hardware Failures

Hardware failure is common and can be very damaging. Depending on the hardware that fails, entire networks can go down in an instant. Monitoring for potential hardware failure is an essential part of network and system monitoring. Hard drive malfunction and power source failure are the two most common reasons for hardware failure. According to a survey by StorageCraft, hard drives alone make up 80.9% of hardware failures. ¹ The best way to mitigate the damage from hardware failure is to establish system redundancies, run frequent back ups and have on-site technicians that will get your servers up and running again as quickly as possible.

 

Spikes in Network Traffic

The Internet is often a vital part of a company’s IT infrastructure. Spikes in bandwidth can interrupt commerce, slow or impair revenues and cause significant customer service issues. Hacking attempts or malware can be the cause of spikes. Other times, it can be caused by mail server issues. Finding the reason for spikes is an essential part of network monitoring. Vivio’s experienced technicians can provide trouble-shooting for these issues and be your partner in communicating with your hosting company so that you can get the best support possible.

Vivio Technologies offers managed IT services with 24/7 network and server monitoring to solve problems before they impact performance. We pinpoint where issues are on your network and what parts are at risk. We solve problems proactively and don’t wait for networks and servers to fail. We coordinate our efforts with your team to get you the best performance possible.

 

References

(1) StorageCraft. Which Hardware Fails the Most and Why. Retrieved from https://blog.storagecraft.com/hardware-failure/ (October 1, 2018)