Linux resource monitor: Optimize & Track System Performance

At Evoxt, we know that an effective Linux resource monitor is essential for optimizing server performance. In this guide, you'll explore key tools and strategies to monitor CPU, memory, disk, and network usage, ensuring your Linux systems operate at peak efficiency.

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Real-Time System Monitoring

Using top (Interactive System Monitor)

The top command provides real-time insights into your system's performance, displaying CPU, memory, and process statistics.

top

Using htop (Enhanced top Alternative)

htop provides a user-friendly interface with color-coded statistics, making system monitoring easier.

sudo apt install htop   # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo yum install htop   # CentOS/RHEL
htop

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Monitoring CPU Usage

Using mpstat

mpstat monitors CPU performance across all cores, providing per-core statistics and overall usage.

sudo apt install sysstat  # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo yum install sysstat  # CentOS/RHEL
mpstat -P ALL

Using uptime

The uptime command quickly shows system load and uptime.

uptime

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Checking Memory and Swap Usage

Using free

The free command displays total, used, and available memory along with swap usage.

free -m

Using vmstat

vmstat provides detailed statistics for memory and I/O operations.

vmstat 1 5

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Monitoring Disk Usage and Performance

Using df

Check available disk space with df in a human-readable format.

df -h

Using iostat

Monitor disk I/O performance using iostat.

iostat -dx 1

Finding Large Files

Identify large files using the du command.

du -ahx / | sort -rh | head -10

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Monitoring Network Activity

Using iftop

iftop tracks network usage and bandwidth to help identify bottlenecks.

sudo apt install iftop  # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo yum install iftop  # CentOS/RHEL
sudo iftop

Using netstat and ss

View active network connections using netstat or ss.

netstat -tulnp

ss -tulnp

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Linux Resource Monitor: Additional Monitoring Tools

Using glances

Glances offers a comprehensive overview of system resources, complementing your monitoring toolkit.

sudo apt install glances  # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo yum install glances  # CentOS/RHEL
glances