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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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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Tip
05 Mar 2024
Importance of backup generator power for data centers
Data center generators are rarely run; however, they must go through regular testing and maintenance to ensure they work when a power outage occurs to prevent server downtime. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Mar 2024
Use Glances to monitor your data center systems
Glances is a real-time, Python-based performance monitor. Administrators with data centers that house multiple OSes should consider installing Glances. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Feb 2024
6 machine learning applications for data center optimization
AI and machine learning have the potential to revolutionize data center operations. They can manage facilities more efficiently by optimizing power consumption and monitoring. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2024
workload
In computing, a workload is typically any program or application that runs on a computer. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2024
hypervisor
A hypervisor is software that facilitates running multiple virtual machines (VMs) with their own operating systems on a single computer host's hardware. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2024
XML vs. YAML: Compare configuration file formats
Databases use data serialization languages, like XML and YAML, to transfer data between applications. XML and YAML have different strengths; admins should know how to use each correctly. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jan 2024
How to avoid malware on Linux systems
Malware attacks are devastating to companies, and there is no exception for Linux systems. Consider updating systems and assigning correct permissions. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2024
How to manage data center water usage sustainably
Data centers use large amounts of water to maintain equipment. This consumption is causing water pollution and scarcity. Companies must start to release consumption reports. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Server hardware guide: Architecture, products and management
Today's server platforms offer a host of options for SMBs and enterprise IT buyers; it's important to learn the essentials before making any purchasing decisions. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
runlevel
A runlevel is an operating state on a Unix and Unix-based operating system that is preset on the Linux-based system. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jan 2024
baseboard management controller (BMC)
A baseboard management controller (BMC) is a specialized service processor that remotely monitors the physical state of a host system, such as a computer, network server or other hardware devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jan 2024
GNU Project
The GNU Project is a mass collaborative initiative for the development of free software, specifically a free operating system called GNU. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2024
configuration management database (CMDB)
A configuration management database (CMDB) is a file -- usually in the form of a standardized database -- that contains all relevant information about the hardware and software components used in an organization's IT services and the relationships among those components. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2024
colocation (colo)
A colocation facility (colo) is a data center or telecommunications facility in which a business can rent space for servers, storage devices, and other computing and networking hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jan 2024
How to purchase the best server hardware for small businesses
Before buying a server, it's important to assess an SMB's needs. Review these seven steps outlining the factors an organization should consider before purchasing a server. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2023
logical volume management (LVM)
Logical volume management (LVM) is a form of storage virtualization that offers system administrators a more flexible approach to managing disk storage space than traditional partitioning. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2023
Improve efficiency with server energy consumption tools
Deciding what servers are most efficient for your infrastructure requires research. Hardware-level certifications and web-based tools can help you select the right option. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Dec 2023
Rack vs. blade server: What's the difference?
Components in a physical data center are held in rack servers or blade servers. Learn the differences, what type of environment you need and which server uses work best. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Dec 2023
Dive into the history of server hardware
Server hardware has consistently evolved since the first web server in 1990. Here's a look at major advancements in management, virtualization and green initiatives. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Dec 2023
Use ASHRAE guidelines to get server temperature right
Follow ASHRAE's guidelines to set up the right facility for your hardware by understanding proper conditions, such as filtration and inlet air temperature recommendations. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Dec 2023
shell program
A shell program is software that provides users with an interface for accessing services in the kernel. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2023
Essential components and tools of server monitoring
Server monitoring requires a list of the right tools to use and infrastructure components to watch. A workflow with these concepts ensures uptime and helps usage predictions. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2023
Data center air quality: The air servers breathe
Monitor data center air quality to ensure best working conditions for equipment. Particulates and gaseous contaminants cause irreversible damage if you do not use proper filtration. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2023
Use the data center circular economy for sustainability
Building data center servers and hardware requires use of many of Earth's nonrenewable resources. Data center owners must adopt the circular economy system for sustainability. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Nov 2023
8 Linux distributions to replace CentOS
Red Hat's discontinuation of CentOS is causing individual users and companies to look elsewhere for an RHEL-compatible OS. Look into compatibility and migration tools to decide. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Nov 2023
Evaluation Assurance Level (EAL)
An Evaluation Assurance Level (EAL) is a category ranking assigned to an IT product or system after a Common Criteria security evaluation. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
31 Oct 2023
How to upgrade RHEL 8 to 9
With CentOS 7 and RHEL 7 reaching end of maintenance, RHEL admins and developers must look into other OS options. Follow this tutorial to upgrade from RHEL 8 to 9. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Oct 2023
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
Open Shortest Path First, often shortened to OSPF, is an IP routing protocol used to find the best path to distribute packets as they pass through IP networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Oct 2023
IP SLA (Cisco)
Internet protocol service level agreement (IP SLA) is a network performance monitoring (NPM) feature of the Cisco Internetwork Operating System (Cisco IOS) that enables an IT professional to collect information about network performance in real time. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Oct 2023
With CentOS going away, what should users do?
Red Hat discontinued CentOS and replaced it with CentOS Stream. Other distributions, like Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux, provide free Linux OSes to the public. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
remote hands
Remote hands is the general name for a service colocation providers offer that enables customers to delegate IT management and maintenance tasks in a colocation facility to technicians hired by the provider. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
13 Oct 2023
How to use Vim in Linux
This tutorial explains basic functions and commands used in Vim to complete simple tasks. Follow along to learn some beginner tips on how to install and use Vim in Linux. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
13 Oct 2023
Use cURL and Wget to download network files from CLI
Web browsers aren't the only tools that use HTTP to download files. Command-line tools, such as cURL and Wget, can download resources like VM images, configuration files and updates. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Oct 2023
brownfield (brownfield deployment, brownfield site)
A brownfield deployment, in information technology, is the installation and configuration of new hardware or software that must coexist with legacy IT systems. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Oct 2023
baffle
In data center hot aisle containment, a baffle is anything that disturbs the flow of air through a room, rack or system. A baffle changes the course of airflow or re-directs it. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Oct 2023
Red Hat vs. SUSE: How do these Linux distributions stack up?
Deciding between Red Hat and SUSE may not seem simple, but comparing training, pricing and certifications should help companies understand which would best suit their employees. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Oct 2023
IBM Watson supercomputer
Watson was a supercomputer designed and developed by IBM. This advanced computer combined artificial intelligence (AI), automation and sophisticated analytics capabilities to deliver optimal performance as a 'question answering' machine. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Sep 2023
Server room cleaning -- not a DIY project
Server room cleaning is crucial for maintaining the life span of equipment in the data center. This task involves professional help to minimize operation interruptions. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Sep 2023
7 common data center migration challenges to avoid
Admins should consider seven common data center migration challenges upfront to save money, prevent data loss and avoid delays during the migration process. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
15 Sep 2023
How to write an SELinux policy
The NSA created the SELinux policy to provide security to applications. SELinux policies best suit an app under specific conditions, which can be found in this tutorial. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Sep 2023
Consider these 6 data center cleaning best practices
Data center admins that follow cleaning best practices can extend the life span of equipment and better ensure assets don't get damaged. Use these six tips to keep data centers clean. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Sep 2023
Guide to data center migration types
Businesses that rely on physical and cloud storage need to use data migration to simplify their infrastructure and choose from three major types to accommodate specific needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2023
unified computing system (UCS)
A unified computing system (UCS) is a converged data center architecture that integrates computing, networking and storage resources to increase efficiency and enable centralized management. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Aug 2023
Cloud vs. traditional data center: Which is right for you?
Enterprises can choose to place workloads in the cloud vs. on-premises data centers, or take a hybrid approach. Check out the factors that can help make the decision. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Aug 2023
Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBCDIC)
Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBCDIC) is an eight-bit encoding scheme that standardizes how alphanumeric characters, punctuation and other symbols are interpreted by a computer's operating system (OS) and applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Aug 2023
logical partition (LPAR)
A logical partition (LPAR) is a subset of a computer's processor, memory and I/O resources that behaves much like a physical server. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Aug 2023
An introduction to quantum networks and how they work
Quantum networks hold potential for faster and more secure communication. But true quantum networks are still experimental and require more engineering and scientific research. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Aug 2023
Ubuntu
Ubuntu (pronounced oo-BOON-too) is a free, open source operating system (OS) based on Debian Linux. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
31 Jul 2023
How to configure SELinux for applications and services
Admins need to follow six steps to configure SELinux properly to run applications and services. This tutorial walks you through how to configure the security system. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
26 Jul 2023
A primer for edge infrastructure deployments
There are several questions to ask and approaches to consider regarding edge storage and infrastructure. An example of use may help your organization decide on implementation. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jul 2023
real-time monitoring
Real-time monitoring is the delivery of continuously updated data about systems, processes or events. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jul 2023
8 benefits of data center virtualization
Organizations with virtualized data center components can save on hardware, comply easier with regulations and increase speed. Consider virtualization for your infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jul 2023
Assess the environmental impact of data centers
Data centers have faced scrutiny about their environmental impact in recent years. Assess their impact to find ways to reduce the environmental damage. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2023
What is the best OS for Docker?
Admins that want to run Docker containers can choose from Linux distros, including Ubuntu Core, RancherOS and others. Compare options for Docker OSes. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jul 2023
Data center cooling challenges and how to solve them
Data centers that are not properly cooled can see equipment work inefficiently or become damaged. Learn some common cooling challenges and assess ways to solve them. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Jun 2023
Reimaging, innovating, securing cloud-native at SUSECON 2023
At SUSECON 2023, SUSE announced cloud-native AI-based observability with Opni and alluded to more announcements this year. Leaders emphasized cloud-native tech and modernization. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jun 2023
Linux swappiness
Linux swappiness is a kernel parameter that determines how aggressively the Linux virtual machine (VM) swaps pages between memory and the swap space on the system's disk. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2023
logical network
A logical network is a software-defined network topology or routing that is often different than the physical network. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jun 2023
Data center tiers and why they matter for uptime
Organizations should consider data center tiers of colocation providers or for their own data centers based on their uptime needs. Examine the differences among the four tiers. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jun 2023
Explore Red Hat's bring-your-own-subscription model for RHEL
Many organizations use pay-as-you-go models with public cloud providers to run their Red Hat products in the cloud. Explore how bring-your-own-subscription differs. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jun 2023
moves, adds and changes (MAC)
Moves, adds and changes (MAC) refers to a set of tasks that IT teams regularly perform to keep computing equipment up to date and aligned with user and business requirements. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jun 2023
VergeIO's new IOfortify halts ransomware spread
Diminutive snapshots, a new alert system and code improvements empower the software of HCI vendor VergeIO against ransomware attacks in its latest release. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2023
Strategies to work toward data center decarbonization
Global temperatures are rising, and organizations can do their part by decarbonizing their data centers. Examine ways to cut back on data center carbon emissions. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jun 2023
Compare two Linux security modules: SELinux vs. AppArmor
Use SELinux or AppArmor to protect Linux servers, but examine the differences between them. AppArmor is easier to use but does not give admins as much control as SELinux. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 May 2023
load shedding
Load shedding (loadshedding) is a way to distribute demand for electrical power across multiple power sources. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 May 2023
Learn about the Azure Stack HCI benefits for admins
The hyper-converged infrastructure offering promises to reduce the headaches associated with running virtualized workloads on hardware sourced from multiple vendors. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 May 2023
Nutanix lays out vision for multi-cloud PaaS
Organizations face challenges with complexity across IT infrastructure. Nutanix aims to simplify with a PaaS platform that extends across many locations. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 May 2023
Network Configuration Protocol (NETCONF)
The Network Configuration Protocol (NETCONF) is an Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) network management protocol that provides a secure mechanism for installing, manipulating and deleting the configuration data on a network device such as a firewall, router or switch. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 May 2023
watt
A watt (symbolized W) is the standard unit of power or radiant flux in the International System of Units (SI). It is derived from the SI base units kilogram (kg), meter (m) and second (s), all of which are constructed from the standard's defining constants. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2023
Make mainframe operations efficient with these strategies
Mainframes affect organizational bottom lines. An expert outlines some key strategies to maintain reliability while keeping mainframe operation costs in check. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2023
How to use ChatGPT for mainframe application management
ChatGPT can help IT admins manage mainframe applications by converting, optimizing and improving code. Also, it can create checklists and provide advice for mainframe management. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 May 2023
Aruba Atmosphere '23 emphasizes agility matters
HPE Aruba Networking positioned its Atmosphere conference as looking at what comes next, but the subtext was all about agility as the company tightens its integration. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2023
edge data center
An edge data center is a small data center that is located close to the edge of a network. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 May 2023
What's involved in cloud repatriation cost calculation?
The costs associated with cloud repatriation go beyond the migration itself. IT managers must account for any new hardware, backup requirements and available skilled personnel. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2023
TCPView
TCPView is a Windows network monitoring utility that shows a graphical representation of all currently active TCP and UDP endpoints on a system. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 May 2023
C shell
C shell (csh) is a Unix shell that provides a command-line user interface (UI) to interact with an operating system (OS). Continue Reading
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Tip
04 May 2023
5 steps for mainframe migration
The complicated task of migrating time-tested mainframe environments calls for careful assessment, attention to technical details and thorough project planning. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 May 2023
Understand top public cloud repatriation use cases
Cloud technology can pose billing, management and compliance issues. Here are five reasons why repatriating cloud workloads back on premises might be a better option. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 May 2023
Tips to use the Cockpit web consoles
Admins that use Cockpit to manage Linux servers can use the web consoles to add users, build firewalls and perform other tasks. Use these web consoles to oversee your servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2023
screen scraping
Screen scraping is a data collection method used to gather information shown on a display to use for another purpose. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2023
Clos network
A Clos network is a type of nonblocking, multistage switching network used today in large-scale data center switching fabrics. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2023
IT monitoring
IT monitoring is a process that gathers metrics on the operations of an IT environment. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
27 Apr 2023
How to install Cockpit for Linux
Linux admins will need to use some of these commands to install Cockpit and configure firewalls. Admins can also connect to one or more servers through Cockpit via these steps. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Apr 2023
data center as a service (DCaaS)
Data center as a service (DCaaS) is the provision of off-site physical data center facilities and infrastructure to clients. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2023
Energy Star
Energy Star is a government-backed labeling program that helps people and organizations save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by identifying factories, office equipment, home appliances and electronics that have superior energy efficiency. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Apr 2023
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, more commonly known as LEED, is an environmentally oriented building certification program run by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2023
Microsoft Cloud Witness
Microsoft Cloud Witness is a quorum witness for Windows Server Failover Clustering (WSFC) that uses Microsoft Azure as the arbitration point. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Apr 2023
Windows NT
Windows NT was a family of operating systems (OS) developed by Microsoft for personal computers and servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Mar 2023
pounds per square inch (PSI)
Pounds per square inch (PSI) is the pressure that results when a 1-pound force is applied to a unit area of 1 square inch. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Mar 2023
electrostatic discharge (ESD)
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the release of static electricity when two objects come into contact. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Mar 2023
4 PowerShell modules every IT pro should know
Find out how to use four of the most popular PowerShell community modules in the PowerShell Gallery to help better manage your data center and automate certain tasks. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Mar 2023
Virtual Machine Disk format (VMDK)
VMware Virtual Machine Disk format (VMDK) is a format specification for virtual machine (VM) disk image files. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2023
ServiceNow's latest Now Platform focuses on AI, automation
ServiceNow doubles down on AI in its latest version of its Now Platform. Code-named Utah, the new version has several AI features intended to optimize business processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2023
Will data centers become obsolete?
Many organizations want to simplify or scale down their data centers -- but they won't disappear. Admins can examine as-a-service options and cloud to offload some applications. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Mar 2023
Can composable infrastructure and computational storage mix?
'Composable' and 'computational' are often said in the same breath, but how exactly are they related -- or not? While there are differences, a combination could serve enterprises. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Mar 2023
pizza box server
The term 'pizza box server' refers to the shape of a computer server enclosed in a rectangular and horizontally- arranged chassis and often installed in a rack with similar servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2023
job scheduler
A job scheduler is a computer program that enables an enterprise to schedule and, in some cases, monitor computer 'batch' jobs (units of work). Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2023
Use Cockpit for Linux remote server administration
Linux admins can use Cockpit to view Linux logs, monitor server performance and manage users. Use the tool to help admins manage servers, regardless of experience level. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2023
statistical mean, median, mode and range
The terms mean, median, mode, and range describe properties of statistical distributions. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2023
sudo (su 'do')
Sudo is a command-line utility for Unix and Unix-based operating systems such as Linux and macOS. Continue Reading