Power on process – Server Room

NB: Be prepared with the proper safety gear. Each server room has flashlights and an emergency lighting solution.

• Consult the full list of the proper boot order for all servers and devices in your server room. (typically you want to start up your devices from the "outside in," meaning modems first, then routers, then switches, then servers and appliances, see Appendix 1)
• Consult the “test” checklist to make sure everything is running (bringing your network back online will be only one-half of the battle, the other half is to test that everything came back on and is reconnected to the network, see Appendix 1)
• Check that all of your systems and how they will need to be tested to make sure everything is back up and connected properly (See Appendix 2)
• When everything is confirmed to be working, inform your users (send a brief email to your users to let them know everything is back up and running and available)

(X) Make a plan for your UPS battery backup system

If you don’t have a UPS, or uninterruptible power supply you should invest in one. If you do have UPS’ for your server room it is best to make a plan of action for eventual power outages. Remember in the event of a power outage you may not have a computer to use to recall your plan, make sure to have a printed copy around just in case and there’s enough fuel to supply the alternative power source.

Appendix 1

Appendix 2

Checklist

1. Send test emails
2. Ping remote site over VPN
3. Check that your workstation can talk to the domain controller
4. Check file server access
5. Print a test page to every printer in the building
6. Walk the floor and make sure all the workstations, monitors, network printers, and etc. have come back on