What Causes Server Downtime and How Can It Be Reduced?

A server is computer software or hardware that provides other systems with data, resources, and programs. Servers serve as a central repository for your company's sensitive data, which can then be accessed, shared, or managed. Since servers are used to provide services that are required continuously, they will be always on. Imagine, then, what would occur if a server went offline for even a few seconds, given the importance of servers to business operations. The immediate effects of unscheduled server downtime on an organization are decreased productivity and revenue. Thankfully, we can implement a set of best practices to prevent unscheduled server outages.

Before moving on to discuss server downtime, let's take a quick look at what server load is and why it's important to monitor server load.

What does server Load mean?

According to DNSstuff, a server load is the number of processes waiting in the queue to access a computer processor, and it is typically calculated over a specific period of time. The greater the server load, the greater the stress on the server. Therefore, for optimal server performance, it is always recommended to keep server load within the acceptable range.

There are numerous factors that affect server load, with distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks being the most prevalent. A DDoS attack overwhelms the server with requests, causing it to overload and fail. It can cause considerable harm to your business. Therefore, if you observe that your server's load is peaking and causing concern, you should consider contacting a server management company to identify and resolve the issue.

How Can We Reduce Server Downtime?

Now, let's discuss the most effective techniques for minimizing server downtime. However, it should be noted that it is impossible to completely prevent server downtime.

Human Errors

Multiple studies have demonstrated that human error is the leading cause of server downtime. According to a study conducted by computerweekly.com, approximately 75% of all downtime is caused by human error.

Consequently, data centers and businesses must ensure that only authorized personnel can modify the server. Having proper documentation of the routine tasks that must be performed will also reduce the likelihood of making mistakes.

Maintain Security Against Cyber Attacks

Another major cause of server downtime is cyberattacks. Servers are susceptible to cyberattacks, particularly DDoS assaults. For businesses, falling victim to a DDoS attack can be disastrous. In DDoS attacks, servers are overwhelmed with requests, causing them to overload and fail.

Adding redundancy to your infrastructure by distributing your servers across multiple data centers using a good load-balancing system is one of the simplest ways to defend against a DDoS attack. However, it appears that anti-DDoS hardware and software modules are the most effective solution. On top of the existing hardware, anti-DDoS software helps filter malicious traffic. It is one of the most economical and straightforward methods. Anti-DDoS hosting and anti-DDoS firewalls are additional means of preventing a DDoS attack.

Have a Continuous Power Supply (UPS)

A reliable uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system helps ensure that your server's power supply remains uninterrupted. A UPS also helps to level out power spikes and prevents unanticipated surges that could damage your system.

Schedule Regular Backups

Hardware failures in servers are common and can occur at any time. Therefore, it is always recommended to regularly back up server data so that it can be restored immediately in the event of a catastrophe. Regular backups ensure the security of your company's data. Without a backup, it would be impossible to restore data from a damaged piece of hardware, resulting in the loss of valuable business information. There are a variety of backup solutions available on the market, each with a unique scope. Always choose the optimal solution according to your needs and requirements.