It’s that time again. Yes, you know… It’s time a for a checkup.

You’ve been avoiding it like the plague because you’re afraid you might find something that you don’t want to find. You’re so busy you don’t have time to think about it. You tell yourself you’ll get to it but… you never do!

I probably don’t need to tell you about the importance of keeping your systems in check. You know, you’ve heard it all before. Sometimes we just need to be reminded, so let me take this opportunity to do just that.

Think about your car. Your oil change is due. A few miles over isn’t a big deal. But eventually, if left unchanged, the wear on your engine will increase dramatically and will shorten its lifespan. Or worse, it can break down when you aren’t expecting it and it could be at the worst possible moment.

Working in this industry for over 20 years, I have learned that it almost always happens at the worst possible moment.

A System Health Check can uncover small problems before they become bigger. Left untreated they can and more than likely will turn into much bigger problems.

Companies that incorporate routine system checks and preventative maintenance measures reduce the risks and are able to recover more quickly when a problem does occur.

So, what exactly is a system health check and what’s involved?

◆ Backup Checks – Are your backups valid? You might be getting successful backups but do you know if they can be restored successfully?
◆ Database Health – Adjust database settings, review extents, promon activity, word indexes, update statistics.
◆ System Health – System verification and check, system log file review, event viewer.
◆ Performance Monitoring – Review OS performance monitors, generate performance reports. File system fragmentation, driver updates
◆ Clean Up – Filesystems, directories, log files, unused applications, temporary files.
◆ System Security – Latest security patches or critical updates and virus definitions
◆ Dump & Load – Annual dump and load is recommended.

I know how you feel and what you’re probably thinking but I have some good news for you. NSA is here to help!

We’re here to help ease the burden when it comes to keeping your systems running in check.