When managing a dedicated server, it is very important to keep a secure password and to change it periodically. In an SSH session, the best way to accomplish this is to use the “passwd” command. A normal user can change his/her own account, while a system administrator (root) can change …
November, 2009
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4 November
Quick System Information with "Uptime"
There are several ways to monitor your Linux dedicated server. Some involve typing simple commands, while more advanced techniques require you to study log files. Few, however, are as easy as typing “uptime”. Once entered, you will know a number of things: 1. The system time. Sometimes you might find …
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4 November
Backup Server Files with Rsync
Few tasks are more important on a dedicated server than backing up crucial data. Many businesses and individuals have suffered financial loss and even emotional breakdowns because they failed to backup their servers. Rsync is a remote syncing tool that you can use to backup data without needing third-party software. …
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2 November
The Copy Command in Linux
This week, I will be featuring several Linux/Unix commands that are very useful and important to know if you have a virtual private server or dedicated server. All of the commands can be executed from an SSH connection. If you have Mac OS X or Linux, you can use the …
October, 2009
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28 October
Database Management with phpMyAdmin
Question: I have a shared hosting account and need an easy way to manage my databases. What can I use? Answer: Chances are, if you are using a server that has both PHP and MySQL, your web hosting provider has given you some type of tool to manage your databases. …
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23 October
Linux File Compression
Question: I downloaded a script that I want to install on my website, but the file extension is tar.gz. What is it, and what do I do with it? Answer: That file extension, .tar.gz means that the file has been doubly compressed with both TAR and GZIP. These are both …
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15 October
Which Programs Are Using Ports?
Question: How do I find out what Linux programs are using my ports? Answer: Running a Linux dedicated server can be a big responsibility, so it is good to know shortcuts for some of the more sticky situations that arise. If you ever have a situation where you cannot start …
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8 October
Common Server Port Numbers
Question: What are some common port numbers used in web hosting? Answer: Most firewalls come configured with the essential port numbers open and the rest of them closed. Nevertheless, it is still important to know which ports do what, whether you are running a dedicated server or just one shared …
September, 2009
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15 September
How to Import a MySQL Database
In a previous post, I explained a couple methods of exporting MySQL databases. Today, we will do just the opposite: import a mysql database. As with the previous example, you may use either phpMyAdmin, your web hosting company’s custom control panel interface (if available), or the Linux command line, if …
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4 September
How to Export a MySQL Database
Question: How do I export and download a MySQL database? Answer: There are two primary ways to export a MySQL database if you are a website owner. The first is to use phpMyAdmin, a web-based graphical interface for managing databases. The second is to login through SSH and use MySQL …