This checklist verifies that core services and system behavior are stable after server‑level updates. It is used after DirectAdmin, CustomBuild, web server, PHP, or operating system updates.
This checklist does not apply updates. It confirms the system is safe to continue operating.
When to run this checklist
- After DirectAdmin updates
- After CustomBuild updates
- After web server or PHP updates
- After operating system package updates
- After a reboot triggered by updates
Initial system checks
- Confirm system access
- Verify SSH access is available
- Confirm expected login behavior
- Check DirectAdmin availability
- Confirm the DirectAdmin control panel loads
- Verify no error banners are present
Service verification
- Web services
- Confirm the web server is running
- Load a known domain or test page
- Mail services (if enabled)
- Confirm mail services are running
- Verify no immediate mail‑related errors are reported
- Background services
- Confirm expected background services are active
- Ignore transient restart messages unless persistent
Resource and status checks
- Resource usage
- Review CPU usage
- Review memory usage
- Confirm disk space is within expected limits
- System messages
- Review recent system and update messages
- Confirm update processes completed successfully
- Note any warnings that persist beyond initial restarts
Reboot determination
- If updates indicate a reboot is required, proceed to Reboot Decision & Verification Checklist
- If no reboot is required, continue normal operation
Operational notes
- Do not assume updates were successful without verification
- Transient warnings immediately after updates are common
- Persistent errors should be investigated before proceeding
Next step — choose one option:
– If issues are detected, pause and investigate before continuing.
– If a reboot is indicated, proceed to Reboot Decision & Verification Checklist.
– Or review Maintenance & Operations guides.