Server Reboot SOP

1. Initiation of Change Request: The process begins when a need for a server reboot is identified. This could be due to scheduled maintenance, system updates, or troubleshooting issues. The person responsible for initiating the change should fill out a change request form that includes details such as the reason for the reboot, the specific server affected, and the desired date and time for the reboot.
2. Change Request Submission: Once the change request form is completed, it should be submitted to the designated change management team or system. This submission can often be done through a ticketing system or an internal workflow tool that tracks change requests and their statuses.
3. Change Request Review: After submission, the change management team will review the request. This review process typically involves assessing the impact of the proposed reboot on business operations, identifying any potential risks, and determining whether the timing is appropriate. The team may consult with relevant stakeholders, such as system administrators and business unit leaders, to gather additional insights.
4. Approval Process: Following the review, the change request must be approved by authorized personnel. This may include IT managers or change advisory board (CAB) members, depending on the organization's policies. The approval process ensures that all necessary parties are aware of the planned reboot and agree with the decision.
5. Notification to Stakeholders: Once the change request is approved, it is crucial to notify all stakeholders affected by the server reboot. This communication should include details about the reboot schedule, expected downtime, and any potential impacts on services. Notifications can be sent via email, internal messaging systems, or posted on a company intranet page.
6. Preparation for Reboot: In the lead-up to the scheduled reboot, IT personnel should prepare by ensuring that all necessary backups are completed and that any critical tasks are addressed. This preparation might also involve checking system dependencies and ensuring that all users are aware of the impending reboot.
7. Execution of Server Reboot: At the designated time, the server reboot should be executed as per the approved change request. IT personnel should follow established protocols for safely shutting down and restarting the server, ensuring that all steps are documented for future reference.
8. Post-Reboot Verification: After the server has been rebooted, it is essential to verify that all systems are functioning correctly. This includes checking application performance, confirming that services are running as expected, and monitoring for any error messages or unusual behavior.
9. Documentation and Closure: Finally, the change request should be documented in the change management system, including details about the execution of the reboot, any issues encountered, and the resolution of those issues. Once all documentation is complete and the system is confirmed to be stable, the change request can be formally closed.

By following these steps, organizations can ensure a structured and efficient approach to managing server reboots, minimizing disruptions and maintaining system integrity.