subject: Con Server Tips And Tricks [print this page] Con Server Tips And Tricks Con Server Tips And Tricks
Con server designs have been around since the early 1990's, but they are just as useful today as they were 20 years ago. A serial console can save your network if the Ethernet stops working on a managed switch, router, or server. With a con server, administrators can fix server and networking problems with minimal hassle or disruption.
To use a con server, start by connecting to your serial terminal. This terminal may be a special laptop or workstation with an armada of useful utilities for network administration. A normal laptop with a DB9 cable will also work, although you will not have as many management options. New computers often do not include a serial port, which may pose a problem for network administrators. However, this can be solved by purchasing a serial-DB9 adapter with a USB input.
The serial line will provide a direct link to your con server. Most devices do not require any special configuration since all the functions are included automatically. Administrators simply need to connect to their terminal, log in, and start making changes. On cheap x86 servers and x86 PCs, you may need to install and figure the console. If you are running Linux, you can use Minicom since it is included with all Linux distributions. Minicom will function as both a client and server. This program can be used on both network and server devices, as well as the computer for network administrators.
Minicom is a great tool, but it is fairly limited. It is best suited for beginners, so advanced and intermediate administrators should start using remote logging, access controls, multiuser capabilities, and SSL encryption. If you are ready for this level on administration, then Conserver is the best option.
Conserver has two main parts: a client and a server. The client is not always required since the server will log all data that can be accessed for replay sessions. This will help administrators to trace back through the server logs to figure out what went wrong. Logs are also a great way to keep track of server activity.
The Conserver client can be used for system administration and real-time monitoring. The client will let multiple users log in simultaneously, but only one can get write access at a time. This is an excellent feature that is often used for group brainstorming on network problems or training. Like any other networking client, users will be able to connect from any location through a direct cable, dial-up, or over the Internet.
Conserver is available with many new Linux distributions. However, not all of them may have the built-in features that you want. To check the different features available, run console "V or conserver "V to view the compiled options.
