Hi

I just got myself a dedicated server and was wondering whats the difference between a managed one and an unmanged one. At the moment ive got a unmanged one and was wondering what kind off jobs as the owner i need to do. Could anyone help me.

Thanx

What type of server do you have Windows or Linux?

Give us some more information on your setup and I am sure somebody will point you in the right direction.

Its a redhat linux server with whm and cpanel

Thanx alot

Most of the distinction between managed hosting and unmanaged hosting are arbitrated by the company with which you have chosen to subscribe service to.

Many companies which are managed provide very little beyond server reboots and very basic technical assistance. More professional organizations define managed as a total solution within their operating environment which typically entails proactive monitoring and response to service or system outages as well as basic daemon security and kernel upgrades as vulernabilities reach public knowledge.

Cpanel will take care of most RPM based security concerns such as keeping basic programs up to date, however things such as kernel security and general hardening of a box can not typically be handled in any automated fashion.

Stay posted on security issues with redhat and your kernel, and read as much as you can about general server security. If eventually it becomes convenient and the task of effective security administration becomes overwhelming you may wish to seek a host which is truly managed.

In any case, I recommend contact your host to ascertain the distinct definition of which they consider managed (if your server is indeed managed) so you are aware of your own personal responsibilities in keeping the box hardened and secure for the safety of your clients.

First things that come to mind are:
Kernel upgrades, make sure your running on the latest version kernel, you should also check all services/software running on the server for security exploits and patch them or upgrade to a secure version.

If you do not know how to do all of this you may want to get a managment package if your host offers one that will take care of all this for you.

Its also helpfull to have a host that is willing to work with you and teach you how to manage the server as you go.

I am sure others will add to this but this is the first things you should look at.

Good luck with your new server .

Originally posted by anixhost
Hi

I just got myself a dedicated server and was wondering whats the difference between a managed one and an unmanged one. At the moment ive got a unmanged one and was wondering what kind off jobs as the owner i need to do. Could anyone help me.

Thanx

You got dedicated server-unmanaged and dont know what you have to do? wow:D
I suggest if you have any budget, better you hire sysadmin.
Too many risk for you, unless you know how to manage your box.

Thanx everyone for your help. I was wondering if anyone knows where i can find tutorials on all this like kernal updates etc.

also what happens if i do not do all this, does the server crash and how often do i need to do this

thanx

Try to search on dedicated server provider's forums, you'll find a lot of tips & trick, but better you have PC at home to play arround and mesh up, try to buy a good linux server admin book also.
I have to say, it's too early for you to buy server.

But dont worry, if you a fast learner, and likes to be sysadmin, I believe you'll find your way :D