8 Common Server Problems & How To Troubleshoot Them
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Optimal, high-performing servers are essential to any successful business. So when a company starts experiencing internal server errors, it negatively impacts significant activity for employees and customers and could ultimately reflect poorly on the business as a whole. In contrast, a well-functioning business server and knowing how to troubleshoot errors will help you avoid losing productivity and possibly keep you ahead of competitors.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common errors experienced by business servers. Several reasons could lead to a slow or completely failed server, and it’s important to note that there is a difference between technical server issues and hardware server issues.
If you have questions or concerns about your business’s server, contact us online or call us at 717-258-3789 to talk with an expert!
Why Is My Server Not Working?
Great question. Several causes may be to blame for server errors due to hardware, including:
1. Power Outages
Surges and power failures instantly affect the power of your server, which often causes a complete interruption of workflow and file access.
In some cases, even when power is restored, it takes some time for the server to reboot. If you haven’t already, look into implementing a backup power system, at least one capable enough to carry the supply of your server. This tool is especially important if your business is based in a location that experiences volatile weather conditions or unstable power supply.
Related Article: Why Data Backup is Important for Your Business
2. Natural Element Interference
When it comes to storing hardware, some businesses opt to place their servers in a less frequented place. This means moisture, dust build-up or heat could contribute to downtime. Aside from downtime, if the server is packed up due to an overload of heat or moisture, this poses a risk to the safety of employees if a short circuit occurs.
If your server is stored in an isolated room or space within your office, address the questions that relate to this possible issue. Is the space temperature controlled? Are there heating and cooling systems in place? Do you have someone qualified to perform regular maintenance or light cleaning for the server hardware?
3. Outdated Firmware
The technology we use daily performs so well because of regular and frequent updates to the physical models. This applies to server hardware, too. Older server hardware models are more challenging to troubleshoot as the physical parts deplete over time and may function less effectively. Subsequently, slow and poor performance becomes a given.
If you aren’t completely certain of your server’s life span, we recommend reaching out to a reputable and responsive IT solutions company to conduct an assessment and provide feedback on a way forward from an outdated server.
4. Damage to Hardware
The space some businesses store their servers could be a factor due to natural conditions causing malfunctions. This is applicable here, but from the aspect of physical damage caused to the server. If your business is located in a high-traffic location or perhaps in close proximity to construction sites, the vibrations felt from the bustle outside could cause the server to falter or detach from its placement.
Another factor to consider is the condition of the server’s wires or cables. To protect it, your server should be in a room that is structurally sound and its components kept out of the way and organized in a safe manner.
Technical Errors Causing Business Server Errors
At this point, you may be able to identify some instances that are familiar to your business and therefore could be causing errors to your server. If you don’t feel these aforementioned reasons ring a bell, keep reading to find out if your server issue is more technological than physical. Common technical errors experienced by servers include:
1. Cybersecurity Issues
Advanced technology strengthens consumer trust and simplifies processes such as submitting personal or financial information. This has resulted in an increase in cybersecurity attacks whereby hackers intentionally try to cause disruption to online business systems to steal information or intercept an online transaction. It is vital to implement solid and trusted counterattack software to prevent potential security breaches from untrustworthy users. What’s more, you will want to develop a regular routine of cyber security testing to ensure your data is secure.
Related Article: How to Reduce Cybersecurity Risks
2. System Overload
If you work in an office with a group of colleagues, it’s highly likely the server will become overloaded with the activity from all those devices. Low server capacity is evident in performance freeze and delays device response. This error is repetitive until such time it manages a lighter load.
Clearly, this is not ideal for productivity, so it’s highly recommended you reach out to an IT solutions specialist for a server assessment. The specialist will be able to ascertain whether or not the system is able to handle all the devices required.
3. Configuration Settings
Another common technical error causing disturbances in business servers is the wrong configuration settings. In most if not all cases, servers require very precise and specific settings. Even if one small setting is incorrect, it could cause the entire system to remain offline. Configuration settings should be regularly checked to ensure all settings, including server host settings, are confirmed as correct.
4. Network Glitches
Internet connectivity issues are annoyances, yet still among the most common errors businesses experience server issues. Investing in a reputable internet service provider (ISP) will eliminate this cause of concern from your server and also minimize the frustration that comes with seeing an alert for a problem connecting to the server.
Related Article: How to Avoid Network Failures & Outages
Troubleshooting Tips for Common Server Problems
Any server troubleshooting tip begins with establishing a standard troubleshooting routine, and because IT can be complex in configuration, especially when multiple devices are involved, it tends to take more patience and time away from those who wish to be focusing on their roles and responsibilities within the business. Here are 8 common tactics to troubleshoot server problems.
- Perform an assessment of the network structure and layout
- Confirm your TCP/IP settings are correctly configured
- Rule out WAN and LAN connection issues
- Evaluate the compatibility of server applications with the operating system
- Ensure the server computer hardware is functioning properly
- Check with your server hosting partner
- Keep track of server maintenance
- Develop a routine server troubleshooting process
Although a handful of issues can be resolved through troubleshooting, the most efficient solution to any server problem would be turning to a team of reputable IT professionals for their expertise. Having the right server hardware and software above efficient IT processes in place will maximize productivity, boost opportunities, protect brand reputation and retain company data, all of which are incredibly valuable and paramount to a successful company.
Get a Free Server Assessment Today
At Kirbtech, we firmly believe technology is an advantage in small to medium-sized businesses and should perform as such. We specialize in custom IT solutions tailored for your unique business by offering a range of services that include company servers and troubleshooting, computer repairs, cloud solutions, phone systems and more!
After an assessment of your current systems, we provide you with the perfect solutions that aim to save you time and money while boosting your overall productivity. We have a team of dedicated personnel who always strive to offer honest and reliable support for every client. Put an end to the technical interruptions and contact Kirbtech for troubleshooting help and Business IT support today!
