Data Center Design and Management: A Comprehensive Guide for System Administrators
Chapter 1: Workstation Operating System Maintenance
Critical Issues
Maintaining workstation operating systems involves three key tasks:
- Initial system software and application loading
- System software and application updates
- Network parameter configuration
Automating these tasks is crucial for cost-effective site management.
Stop-Gap Measures
To prevent temporary solutions from becoming permanent, create a ticket to document the need for a permanent fix.
Cloning and Other Methods
Some sites use hard disk cloning to create new machines with identical software configurations. This involves setting up a “golden host” and copying its hard disk to new computers.
Chapter 2: Server Management
Definition
A server is a computer program or hardware that provides services to other programs or computers. Servers prioritize reliability and uptime due to their dependence on multiple clients.
Hardware for Servers
1. Buy Server Hardware
While desktop hardware may seem cost-effective, server hardware offers features that justify the higher cost, such as:
- Extensibility
- Enhanced CPU performance
- High-performance I/O
- Upgrade options
- Rack mountability
- No side-access needs
2. Choose Reliable Vendors
Consult with other system administrators to identify reputable vendors.
3. Consider Maintenance Contracts and Spare Parts
Explore maintenance contract options and understand return merchandise authorization (RMA) and cross-shipping processes.
4. Maintaining Data Integrity
Protect critical data and unique configurations on servers.
5. Put Servers in the Data Center
Install servers in a controlled environment with proper power, fire protection, networking, cooling, and physical security.
Server Appliances
Appliances are devices designed for specific tasks, such as file servers, web servers, and email appliances.
Redundant Power Supplies
Implement redundant power supplies to ensure system operation in case of failure. Consider n+1 redundancy or fully redundant systems with failover configurations.
Chapter 3: Data Center Design and Management
Data Center Basics
Data centers house shared resources and typically include systems for cooling, humidity control, power, and fire suppression. Consider the following aspects when designing a data center:
- Location
- Access
- Security
- Power and Cooling
- Fire Suppression
- Racks
- Wiring
- Labeling
- Communication
- Console Access
- Workbench
- Tools and Supplies
- Parking Spaces
Location
Choose a location that is not prone to natural disasters.
Access
Ensure compliance with local laws regarding access and consider equipment movement logistics.
Security
Implement access control measures such as proximity badge systems and consider two-person entry protocols for high-security environments.
Power and Cooling
Direct airflow using raised floors or ceiling-mounted systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
Fire Suppression
Install a fire suppression system and consider linking it with a power shutoff switch.
Racks
Organize equipment and optimize airflow using racks.
Wiring
Plan for cable management to maintain a tidy data center.
Labeling
Label all equipment clearly on both front and back.
Communication
Facilitate communication between system administrators, customers, and vendors.
Console Access
Utilize console servers for remote access to equipment.
Workbench
Consider using a workbench tool for database administration tasks.
Tools and Supplies
Maintain a fully stocked inventory of cables, tools, and spare parts.
Parking Spaces
Designate parking spaces for mobile items and label tool carts for organization.