Linux servers have become increasingly popular due to their unparalleled affordability, flexibility, stability, security, and ability to give users control over configuration, run several applications on one server, and maintain nearly 100% uptime. Because these servers don’t require a graphics interface, you can run it smoothly on both cloud and physical servers.
As an added benefit, Linux servers accommodate more intense operational and storage needs for large organizations. Despite these nearly innumerable benefits, to get the most out of Linux servers, you will need to distribute your resources thoughtfully and avoid making disastrous mistakes that could negatively impact sales, workflow continuity, and productivity.
Failure to perform patches
Security patches are critical for your server’s well-being and data security. Failure to carry out the necessary updates may compromise the system, leading to costly mishaps and malfunctions. You can choose to perform security patches manually or automatically.
SUSE live patches for Linux Kernel is a revolutionary technology that facilitates business continuity and minimizes expenses by enhancing compliance and security, lowering downtimes, and raising service availability. Live patching allows you to apply patches without rebooting your servers, so your processes continue to operate as usual while you make the critical updates.
Neglecting backups
The majority of data losses occur due to security issues or human error. These security issues and employee slip-ups can be quite unpredictable, so it’s in the best interest of an IT department to take a proactive approach to data protection. By not performing backups, you risk losing all your valuable data, which can put you one step closer to a major disaster. When choosing a backup system, consider critical factors like automation, easy restoration, and comprehensiveness.
Fast deployment
Big-bang deployment may seem attractive because it offers a complete solution without delay. However, it’s more complicated than it may appear at first glance. Big-bang deployment requires extensive coordination, consumes a lot of time, and makes troubleshooting difficult. Therefore, any form of Linux deployment should happen gradually and should be accompanied by small tests to ensure you get it right the first time and minimize the risk of making detrimental mistakes.
It is risky to deploy many changes at once. For optimal results, it would be best to do it through various stages. When deploying a database server, make sure you read the documentation carefully to avoid insecure resources and adhere to the security configuration.
Ensure uptime and manage peak loads for Linux server systems that handle critical missions. Achieving maximum uptimes requires comprehensive load testing before deploying. With Linux servers, you’ll need to check whether you need to make configuration changes or other, more substantial changes.
Not documenting changes
It’s not enough for your team to understand how a Linux system operates. You’ll also have to account for future changes in your workforce, potential career changes, booked staff vacation time, and many other critical contingencies. Make a point of documenting everything you do on your servers to avoid any future complications.
Make sure that any Linux Server deployment in your company includes comprehensive documentation, including anything that a replacement admin would require to configure services, add users, or perform system updates. If you store your documentation online, ensure that you establish pointers to external documents or create a local copy in case of losses or changes in the storage location.
Working with the wrong web host
Hiring the wrong hosting company for your Linux servers can be detrimental to your company’s success, as you’ll likely encounter frequent server downtime. Similarly, you might have to wait for several hours or days before responding to your support requests. To avoid these inconveniences that could sabotage productivity and sales, find a reputable company that will equip you with the tools necessary to succeed. Such companies should have many years of experience, guarantee 15 minutes of response times, offer different server options, and continuously communicate through live chat, email, or phone calls.
Using weak passwords
With brute force attacks, all an intruder must do is guess passwords and usernames until they find the right combination to access your servers. Although having an easy-to-remember password sounds great, convenience shouldn’t always be a top priority. Therefore, server admins should understand the benefits of using complex and lengthy passwords.
You can use a password generator to create secure server passwords, disable root logins by configuring SSH, or use key-based authentication to minimize the risk of brute force attacks. Although SSH configurations are straightforward, make sure you configure the “Sudo” to elevate the privileges.
Final thoughts
Although it’s human nature to make mistakes, server mistakes can be quite expensive and detrimental to your company, so it’s best to avoid them at all costs. Take time to learn the basics of running Linux servers and partner with the best providers.