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
26 Jun 2025
8 things to know when switching from Windows to Linux
Switching to Linux from Windows can present new challenges for beginner Linux admins. Here are eight tips to keep in mind when adopting a Linux OS if you've only used Windows. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jun 2025
Manage Linux storage space with du and df commands
The du and df commands detailed here enable sys admins to review and understand the storage capabilities of their on-premises or cloud-based servers, whether physical or virtual. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jun 2025
HPE launches software push with CloudOps bundle
At HPE Discover, the infrastructure vendor promises a 'great VM reset' on HPE Private Cloud and touts a new software push. Continue Reading
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News
24 Jun 2025
HPE offerings dive into AI features and new bundle packages
The new HPE Cloud Ops Software suite bundles pieces of the vendor's private cloud data centering offerings, and HPE expands AI capabilities in software and hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jun 2025
What are the Uptime Institute's data center tier standards?
Data center tiers are a system created by Uptime Institute LLC to describe the availability of infrastructure resources in a facility. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jun 2025
What is PUE (power usage effectiveness)?
Power usage effectiveness (PUE) is a metric used to determine the energy efficiency of a data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jun 2025
Dive into 9 Bash commands for Linux storage management
Learning these essential tools simplifies your life as an admin and enables you to manage Linux servers more effectively. Use these examples to start working with storage space. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2025
What is computer room air conditioning (CRAC)? CRAC vs. CRAH unit differences?
A computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit is a device that monitors and maintains the temperature, air distribution and humidity in a data center, network or server room. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jun 2025
Fix Active Directory account lockouts with PowerShell
Entering the wrong credentials so many times can block users from logging in. This tutorial explains how to find and correct these issues and other lockout events. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
30 May 2025
A guide to switch from Windows to Linux
Switching from Windows to Linux can seem like a daunting task. Follow this guide to seamlessly migrate to Linux, from premigration practices to installation. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2025
Useful commands to check CPU info in Linux systems
You can issue commands through your Linux CLI to gather CPU information, including detailed information on cores, class, virtualization support, architecture and usage. Continue Reading
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News
20 May 2025
Dell makes private cloud optionality a priority
Dell Technologies wants to enable automation and choice on its data center hardware, with third-party support for Dell NativeEdge and new software, including Dell Private Cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 May 2025
26 essential Linux storage commands for management
Monitor, manage and secure storage capacity across your Linux servers, devices and dev workstations. These commands aid management of file sizes, partitions and file systems. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2025
Dell Technologies pitches its hardware for AI data centers
Servers, networking and storage hardware take center stage at Dell Technologies World 2025, as well as a tightly integrated offering with AI titans such as Nvidia and Google. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2025
Single-tenant vs. multi-tenant cloud architecture
Single-tenant and multi-tenant cloud architecture offer unique advantages and disadvantages. Understanding both is crucial for selecting the best fit for your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 May 2025
2025 data storage conference lineup spotlights AI, flash
The 2025 storage conference calendar features shows where vendors will likely release product updates and experts will discuss top trends, such as AI, AI and AI. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2025
Nutanix platform may benefit from VMware customer unrest
Nutanix's Next 2025 conference attendees are jumping ship to the platform after Broadcom's VMware buy, as Nutanix executives plan enterprise-driven evolutions for the platform. Continue Reading
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News
08 May 2025
Nutanix CEO talks customer challenges and platform updates
Many customers are still looking for a VMware exit and need a modernized platform, Nutanix President and CEO Rajiv Ramaswami says in this Q&A with Informa TechTarget. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2025
Benefits and challenges of underground data centers
Underground data centers offer sustainable alternatives to traditional facilities. They occupy less surface land, provide a naturally cool environment and use renewable energy. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2025
Differences between Green Globes vs. LEED for data centers
Consider Green Globes and LEED certifications when building green data centers. Learn the differences in how the assessments are done and what each requires. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 May 2025
What is Bash (Bourne Again Shell)?
Bash (Bourne Again Shell) is the free and enhanced version of the Bourne shell distributed with Linux and GNU operating systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 May 2025
Rocky Linux vs. AlmaLinux: Which is better?
Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux are RHEL-compatible distributions created after Red Hat announced the discontinuation of CentOS in 2020. Although similar, they differ in some approaches. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 May 2025
Complexities of integrating AI into legacy data centers
Integrating AI into legacy data center infrastructure is challenging. Increased heat and load require advanced cooling systems, structural adjustments and enhanced power capacity. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What are hot and cold aisles in the data center?
Hot and cold aisles in the data center are part of an energy-efficient layout for server racks and other computing equipment. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Apr 2025
19 Linux performance monitoring utilities
Monitoring Linux server performance is vital for optimal operation. System admins should consider these 19 performance monitoring utilities to ensure maximum server performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2025
Classical vs. quantum computing: What are the differences?
Classical and quantum computers differ in their computing capabilities, how they operate and the resources they need. Know the differences to plan for a quantum future. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
17 Apr 2025
Manage storage using Linux Logical Volume Manager
To see how flexible your storage space can be, consider Logical Volume Manager on Linux. Flexibility is critical on servers housing huge numbers of files or other resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Apr 2025
A primer on quantum computing storage and memory
Quantum storage and memory differ significantly from the technologies in today's computers. The implications for compute power and storage capacity could someday be extraordinary. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2025
What is total cost of ownership (TCO)?
Total cost of ownership (TCO) is an estimation of the expenses associated with purchasing, deploying, managing, using and retiring IT assets, such as a product or piece of equipment. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Apr 2025
What is outsourcing?
Outsourcing is a business practice in which a company hires a third party to perform tasks, handle operations or provide services for the company. Continue Reading
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News
09 Apr 2025
Google Cloud Platform adds WAN and on-premises AI services
A handful of infrastructure announcements for the Google Cloud Platform debut at Next 2025 including a Cloud WAN service, on-premises Gemini AI and new AI chips. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Apr 2025
The state of quantum computing: What businesses need to know
Quantum computing's potential and steady advancement make the technology worth investigating, but adopters still need to deal with conflicting claims and uncertain market timing. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2025
Broadcom VMware hardens vDefend, drops Tanzu branding in VCF
The VMware Cloud Foundation private cloud platform sheds the Tanzu branding for Kubernetes and adds new capabilities to vDefend, but are prices hikes coming? Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Apr 2025
What is synthetic monitoring?
Synthetic monitoring is a proactive monitoring approach that uses scripted simulations of user interactions to assess the performance and availability of websites, applications and services. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Apr 2025
Dell VxRail vs. Nutanix NX: HCI heavyweights square off
Compare Dell VxRail and Nutanix NX, leading hyperconverged infrastructure platforms, to understand their strengths and ideal applications to best fit your organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is a programmable network (network programmability)?
A programmable network is one in which software that operates independently of network hardware handles the behavior of network devices and flow control. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2025
12 companies building quantum computers
Companies are building quantum computing capabilities in the software and hardware space. Twelve have contributed significant progress and offer capabilities for the future. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2025
VMware dominance remains, despite challengers
Customers aren't rotating off VMware by Broadcom, despite gripes on pricing and the rise of enterprise virtualization alternatives. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Mar 2025
6 sustainable resources to power data centers
Data centers are using clean energy to sustainably run parts of the facility. Six sustainable energy options to consider are solar, wind, nuclear, tidal, hydrogen and geothermal. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Mar 2025
8 IaC configuration file editors for admins to consider
Configuration files are essential for app and OS functionality but managing them at scale can be challenging. Here are eight editors for admins to consider for their IaC setup. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is data center infrastructure management (DCIM)?
Data center infrastructure management (DCIM) is the convergence of IT infrastructure, operations and building facilities functions within an organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is east-west traffic?
East-west traffic refers to the transfer of data packets that move from server to server within a network's data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2025
What is storage virtualization?
Storage virtualization is the pooling of physical storage from multiple storage devices into what appears to be a single storage device or pool of available storage capacity. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Feb 2025
XFS vs. ext4: Which Linux file system to maximize storage?
Storage devices require a file system to organize data. Make the best choice -- XFS or ext4 -- for your Linux server's anticipated data storage workload. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Feb 2025
What are COTS, MOTS, GOTS and NOTS?
COTS, MOTS, GOTS and NOTS are abbreviations that describe prepackaged software or -- less commonly -- hardware purchase alternatives. The four acronyms denote different classifications of software and hardware, each with its own unique characteristics and usage scenarios. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2025
Data center temperature and humidity guidelines
ASHRAE maintains a recommended list of humidity and temperature level standards for data centers. Discover which range of guidelines is best for each equipment class. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2025
VMware alternative vendors see 2025 as year to make a mark
Numerous KVM-derived hypervisors are competing to claim the title of VMware alternative among enterprise customers, but actual adoption rates are still a question. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jan 2025
What is nearshore outsourcing and how does it work?
Nearshore outsourcing is the practice of getting work done or services performed by people in neighboring countries rather than an organization's own country. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jan 2025
What is SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition)?
SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) is a category of industrial control systems (ICS) that remotely gathers data in real time from industrial processes in order to supervise and control equipment and conditions. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jan 2025
What is ISO 50001 (International Organization for Standardization 50001)?
ISO 50001 (International Organization for Standardization 50001) is a voluntary standard for designing, implementing and maintaining an energy management system. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jan 2025
What are metered services and how do they work?
Metered services (also called pay-per-use and consumption-based pricing) are any type of payment structure in which a customer has access to potentially unlimited resources but only pays for what they use. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jan 2025
5 top colocation providers to watch in 2025
The market share leaders are poised to pursue more AI workloads in 2025, while also expanding their data center portfolios and addressing energy consumption issues. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jan 2025
Third-party VMware support for perpetual licenses growing
VMware support for perpetual licensed software by Broadcom may be dwindling, but third-party vendors are stepping up to fill the void. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2025
TOML vs. INI: Comparing configuration file formats
Organizations are adopting TOML and INI for configuration due to their readability and simplicity. Compare the formats to see if one is best for your organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Dec 2024
What is Hitachi Vantara?
Hitachi Vantara is a data storage systems provider, previously known as Hitachi Data Systems (HDS). Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2024
Compare DIMM vs. SO-DIMM features, uses
The question of DIMM vs. SO-DIMM yields some clear answers, especially as it relates to size. A proper comparison also considers the effect that CAMM will have on the market. Continue Reading
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News
19 Dec 2024
VMware by Broadcom changes to continue in 2025
After a year of lawsuits, customer confusion and a restructuring of the core business, VMware by Broadcom has much to prove in 2025 to avoid future irrelevancy in the data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Dec 2024
Top data center infrastructure management software in 2025
DCIM tools can improve data center management and operation. Learn how six prominent products can help organizations control costs, manage energy and track assets. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Dec 2024
What is traveling salesman problem (TSP)?
The traveling salesman problem (TSP) is a programming optimization problem to find the shortest path that connects a given set of points. Continue Reading
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News
10 Dec 2024
StorMagic SvHCI 2.0 eases VM migration
Six months after the initial release, StorMagic SvHCI is adding features to make it an attractive alternative to VMware at the edge. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Dec 2024
What is system software?
System software is a type of computer program designed to run a computer's hardware and application programs. Thinking of the computer system as a layered model, the system software is the interface between the hardware and user applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Dec 2024
What is a web server?
A web server is software and hardware that uses HTTP and other protocols to respond to client requests made over the World Wide Web. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2024
Linux text editor tips for cloud admins using Vim and Nano
Vim and Nano are common Linux text editors that can help cloud admins manage cloud-based Linux VMs. While the tools might seem overwhelming, a few basic skills can go a long way. Continue Reading
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News
25 Nov 2024
AWS to offer native VMware service with license portability
AWS and Broadcom partner again to offer a new, native service within Amazon Virtual Private Cloud using existing VMware Cloud Foundation licenses. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Nov 2024
How the rise in AI impacts data centers and the environment
AI's impact on data centers raises environmental concerns as rising energy demands from technologies such as ChatGPT strain resources and challenge sustainability. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Nov 2024
What is a shell script and how does it work?
A shell script is a text file that contains a sequence of commands for a Unix-based operating system (OS). Continue Reading
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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
05 Nov 2024
Broadcom unveils AI, networking features for VCF
Broadcom solidifies VMware Cloud Foundation's shift with a focus on AI and services, but experts wonder about future R&D. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2024
11 tools for cloud provisioning and infrastructure automation
Explore the features of cloud infrastructure automation tools from AWS, CircleCI, Google, Jenkins, Microsoft, Perforce, Progress Software, Red Hat, Terraform and VMware. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Oct 2024
What is a command prompt?
A command prompt is the input field in a text-based user interface screen for an operating system (OS) or program. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Oct 2024
What is MVS (Multiple Virtual Storage)?
MVS (Multiple Virtual Storage) is an OS from IBM that continues to run on many of IBM's mainframe and large servers. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Oct 2024
HCL vs. JSON: Configuration language uses, pros and cons
HCL and JSON are similar configuration languages. These languages are meant for specific IaC scenarios, so companies should understand the syntax and editing tools for each. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Oct 2024
What is a real-time operating system (RTOS)?
A real-time operating system (RTOS) is an OS that guarantees real-time applications a certain capability within a specified deadline. Continue Reading
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News
20 Sep 2024
VMware platform an investment in users, Broadcom CEO says
Hock Tan underscored the importance of customers at the Boston VMware User Group UserCon, but users remain uneasy about the recent changes ushered in by VMware's new parent company. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Sep 2024
What is ITIL? A guide to the IT Infrastructure Library
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is a framework designed to standardize the selection, planning, delivery, maintenance and overall lifecycle of IT services within a business. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2024
What is National Electrical Code (NEC)?
National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of regularly updated standards for the safe installation of electric wiring in the Americas. Continue Reading
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News
27 Aug 2024
VMware VCF expands onramp to Broadcom's private cloud future
New capabilities for VMware VCF can import and manage existing VMware services through a single console interface for a private cloud experience under Broadcom's supervision. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Aug 2024
What is distributed computing?
Distributed computing is a model in which components of a software system are shared among multiple computers or nodes. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Aug 2024
8 best practices for configuration file management
Configuration files are vital for system deployment and management. Consider improving file management with proper planning, centralization, automation and testing. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2024
What is a kernel?
A kernel is the essential foundation of a computer's operating system (OS). It's the core that provides basic services for all other parts of the OS. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jul 2024
What is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a device that allows a computer to keep running for at least a short time when incoming power is interrupted. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jul 2024
What is RPM Package Manager?
RPM Package Manager (RPM), originally called the Red Hat Package Manager, is an open source program for installing, uninstalling and managing software packages in Linux. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2024
supervisor call (SVC)
In computers, especially IBM mainframes, a supervisor call (SVC) instruction is a processor instruction that directs the processor to pass control of the computer to the operating system's supervisor program. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2024
Understand the uses of blockchain in data centers
Blockchain is most famous for its cryptocurrency applications, but data centers can employ it for a variety of business-related reasons -- including increased security. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jul 2024
hardware clustering
Hardware clustering, sometimes called OS clustering, is a hardware-based method of turning multiple servers into a cluster -- a group of servers that acts like a single system. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jul 2024
boot loader (boot manager)
A boot loader (boot manager) is a small program that places the operating system (OS) of a computer into memory. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jun 2024
Next steps to consider before CentOS 7 end of life
In today's world of security threats, it's critical to keep OSes up to date. As the end-of-life date for CentOS 7 approaches, companies can no longer delay distribution migration. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2024
StorMagic debuts HCI, hypervisor as VMware alternative
StorMagic looks to court customers with smaller data centers for SMBs and the edge with SvHCI, a new VMware alternative with a KVM-based hypervisor and HCI capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2024
Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP)
The Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is an open and extendable part of the Internet Protocol Suite, commonly known as TCP/IP, used in the IEEE 802.1AB standard to advertise a device's identity and abilities to other connected devices within the same network. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jun 2024
industrial control system (ICS)
In industrial settings, industrial control system (ICS) is a term used to describe the integration of hardware and software with network connectivity to support production processes in manufacturing or critical infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jun 2024
SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux)
SELinux, or Security-Enhanced Linux, is a part of the Linux kernel that acts as a protective agent to the operating system. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jun 2024
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES)
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) is a Linux-based server operating system created and maintained by the German-based organization, SUSE. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 May 2024
Data center power backup options to deal with downtime
Generators, UPS systems and batteries work in tandem to safeguard data centers against power outages, fluctuations and grid failures. Admins must know what system is best for them. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 May 2024
Best practices for completing a storage migration plan
Storage migration doesn't have to be such a daunting task. With the proper plan, an organization can get out in front of issues and be ready for the important process. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2024
Safeguard data center power with regular UPS maintenance
There are several levels of testing to address when developing a UPS maintenance checklist. Be sure to conduct visual, thermal and load tests to verify UPS health. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2024
How to maintain data center power systems
Regular maintenance of data center power systems is necessary to have properly functioning equipment and backup power options. Common failures are batteries and loose connections. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Apr 2024
single pane of glass
A single pane of glass is a management console that presents data from multiple sources in a unified display. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Apr 2024
raceway
A raceway, sometimes referred to as a raceway system, is an enclosed conduit that forms a physical pathway for electrical wiring. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2024
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the transfer of data from one computer system to another by standardized message formatting without the need for human intervention. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2024
GNOME (GNU Network Object Model Environment)
GNOME (GNU Network Object Model Environment) is a graphical user interface (GUI) and set of computer desktop applications for Linux operating system (OS) users. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2024
epoch
In a computing context, an epoch is the date and time relative to which a computer's clock and timestamp values are determined. Continue Reading