VPS Linux provides the possibility to enjoy the benefits of a dedicated server, however for a lower cost. Linux and Windows VPS features great performance results as it is not shared with others, therefore there are relatively less lags and slowdowns. Even though Linux creates endless possibilities and features, there are ways to improve the overall performance of a Linux VPS even more. Below we tell how to achieve it in a simple 4 steps.
Regular updates are significant
Updates not only contributes to maximum security, but to a better performance as well. For applications to run without any disturbances, default kernel parameter settings should be updated regularly. The default value of message queue in kernel 2.4.x series limit constant connections to a database. For VPS Linux to perform at its best, one needs to ensure the recommended values are kept.
Shut down the GUI
Because all administration tasks can be accomplished via a command line, it is recommended to shut the GUI down. It doesn’t matter if you shut down it after the machine is set up or even before that – it’s important to not miss this step. It is the best to change the run level from 3 to 5 and start the GUI manually once it is necessary.
Disabling the services
The next step to improve the performance of VPS Linux is shutting down the services that are not being used. Often the services run by default, so it is necessary to disable them manually. The reason behind this is simple: the background services utilize CPU and RAM time and can even expose VPS to remote attacks.
Also, control panels should be disabled when not being used as well – it can save up to 120 MB of RAM. Like GUI, a control panel can be turned on again when needed. It can be done via a PHP script or command line. By doing so, one can reduce RAM usage by 40%.
Finally, looking at the Apache configuration files and disabling the ones that are not required should be the last, yet significant step to improve VPS Linux performance. This will shift the resources to the software; therefore, the server load will increase greatly.
Useful performance commands
There are 5 commands that can help to trace the performance of a Linux server. These are:
- Top;
- Vmstat;
- Iostat;
- Free;
- Sar.
Both, “top” and “vmstat” commands expose the relevant data regarding the server performance. The first one indicates number of running processes, memory usage, system load and current uptime while the other presents the overview of CPU, IO and more processes.
The command “iostat” displays network file, system and CPU utilization reports, and if one wishes to take a look into memory statistics, command “free” is a perfect option. With the help of it, using -b and -m switches, bytes and megabytes are indicated. The performance data of VPS Linux can be collected and recorded with the command “sar”.
Simple, easy steps can provide the possibility to enjoy the best Linux VPS experience: keep regular updates, shut down the GUI, disable unnecessary services and get acquainted with performance commands. Do not forget 0 constant monitoring and examination are the keys to ensure the best performance.