3 Golden Rules of Systems Administration
The Three Golden Rules of Systems Administration
Know how to undo Know how to redo Know more than you need to
Bearing these three rules in mind when undertaking work on computer systems has saved me many times:
1: Always know how to undo what you are about to do
Always. It does not matter how many times you have done this operation - what is your back out plan if something goes wrong? Are all the resources you need available to reverse this action? If a process appears to be irreversible, then perhaps this needs a bit more thought.
2: Always know how to redo what you just did
Rarely is anything done just once. Keeping a log of what was done and in which order helps the next time. Once it becomes a habit you will find it quick and easy to do.
Save the commands in a file in order, even if you don't create a script - you will have the raw materials for your script the next time you need to do it. At the very least, you will have instructions on how to do it.
I'll bet you need the scripts or document sooner than you think.
3: Don't live on the limits of your knowledge
Read the documentation, read around the subject. Experiment. Feel comfortable with the technology.
If you live on the limits of your knowledge, your opportunities are curtailed and the jaws of defeat grow wider.
Conclusion
The Golden Rules of System Administration:
1: Know how to undo 2: Know how to redo 3: Know more than you need to
You will live a more happier and more prosperous life by keeping to these.