DigitalServers.net Case Study - EasyDCIM
Case Studies

Expanding Horizons with Smart Automation – DigitalServers.net Case Study

In today's fiercely competitive industry, merely opening a data center is just a small piece of the puzzle when it comes to establishing your brand and achieving success. To stand a chance, you need to surround yourself with an impeccably robust toolkit and continually explore new ways for expanding your business. The challenge lies in navigating the market's countless product options, which - however wonderful they may be - is likely to leave you with a headache. How do you avoid getting lost in the maze of software solutions, each tailored to a different facet of your growing data center? This brings us to Intellectica Systems Inc., widely known by its trade name DigitalServers.net - an enterprise that began their operational activity in 2008. Since then they have been making their mark by providing clients with different types of tailor-made hosting solutions. Aiming to uncover their success story, we asked Nizamuddin Khawaja, Director at DigitalServers.net, to what extent EasyDCIM has helped shape their current business landscape. Looking for the tool that lets you have it all As Nizamuddin points out, the company’s major focus from the start was on finding a tool that would facilitate the management of their data center infrastructure, lifting the burden of relying on various systems delivered by multiple vendors. And this was by no means an easy task, given the numerous processes encompassed by the definition of management in this industry context, and considering how essential it was to ensure these tasks were performed smoothly, efficiently, and in a maximally automated manner. When asked about the reasons for adopting EasyDCIM, Nizamuddin didn’t hesitate to list all aspects he wanted covered with the help of just one comprehensive and unified solution: “Since the beginning we always looked for an all-in-one solution that could do automated OS installation, inventory management, IP management, bandwidth pooling from switches and KVM over IP access to clients over private IP’s.” The swift acknowledgment of the direction in which the company’s strategy should evolve left no space for hesitation about the next move. Instead of juggling various software tools operating independently from one another, DigitalServers.net decided to go for an option that paved the path for streamlined management of numerous processes within the confines of one powerful system. As Nizamuddin eagerly admits, after adopting EasyDCIM as the company’s new platform, “everything worked like a charm from one panel”. EasyDCIM as a game-changer There are probably few things that frustrate server providers more than tediousness of day-to-day chores, repeatedly requiring a great deal of time, energy and effort that could otherwise be channeled to creating new opportunities for propelling the company’s growth. EasyDCIM basically grew out of our urgent desire to end the era of lengthy processes and laborious rituals that could not be conducted without more or less frequent human intervention. Our goal was to enrich our customers’ digital equipment with a panel that helps administer everyday tasks in the most automated and hassle-free manner possible. Observing the increasing interest in the possibility of integrating EasyDCIM with WHMCS, a widely used billing and automation platform, we soon embarked on a mission to join forces with experts from ModulesGarden. This partnership resulted in crafting two free-of-charge, highly intuitive modules - EasyDCIM Dedicated Servers For WHMCS and EasyDCIM Colocation For WHMCS, both instrumental in bringing much-desired billing flexibility and significantly enhancing the user experience. Look at how Nizamuddin Khawaja encapsulates the outcome of our successful undertaking: “EasyDCIM together with WHMCS helped us to lower our technicians' time and efforts that they used to put in to get a new customer onboard or to add new services to an existing client’s account.With EasyDCIM and WHMCS integration clients get all needed features from a single panel.” When nudged gently about his favorite benefit of using EasyDCIM, he replies confidently: “Best feature of EasyDCIM is order placement from WHMCS and automated provisioning of servers including OS installation and new server info email that is sent to clients.” Thinking about future chapters… Although things are going well and promising for Nizamuddin’s company, their growth strategy does not include staying too long in the comfort zone outlined by current triumphs. Every serious enterprise always strives for more, and so does DigitalServers.net. Currently, the company provides servers to clients from Amsterdam, Dallas and Las Vegas, however, an integral part of their development plan is to expand their reach to such locations as India, Dubai and Helsinki. Ambitious as it all sounds, we have absolutely no doubt this mission will be accomplished. Encouraged by Nizamuddin’s account of his experience with EasyDCIM, we couldn’t help but ask him whether he would recommend our solution to other companies. His immediate positive answer brought smiles to our faces and made us feel a fresh surge of excitement for future development of the control panel. There are always new goals emerging, and we are thrilled to persistently work toward them. Enticed by the concept of joining the EasyDCIM community? Feel invited to do so and see for yourself how our platform can help your business thrive!
Joanna Byjoś - EasyDCIM Marketing Team Leader
Joanna Byjoś
EasyDCIM v1.9.9
Release Notes

EasyDCIM v1.9.9 makes strides with Redfish and Duo Security!

It was just a blink of an eye ago that our marketplace welcomed a major update - the platform has officially opened up to the integration with HostBill, courtesy of two brand-new (and free!) extensions: Dedicated Servers For HostBill and Colocation For HostBill. Now, fully aware that the dust has barely settled, we are announcing that another anticipated step on our developmental path has been taken. Let us shed some light on the freshly unveiled EasyDCIM v1.9.9! Redfish ProtocolFacilitating server detection Our major focus is always on freeing server management from chaos and complexity – one functional aspect at a time. And that’s exactly what has driven this fresh change, resulting in new features that will empower you with greater control over your elaborate infrastructure. Determined to respond to changing industry dynamics and community needs, we made our IPMI integration extension compatible with the Redfish protocol that stands out as a cutting-edge technology employed by the most prominent dedicated server manufacturers like Dell, Supermicro, and HP. R.I.P IPMI - Long Live Redfish? Increasingly recognized as a modern and more secure alternative to IPMI, Redfish stands ready to eventually replace it, emerging as the fresh industry standard for data center management. Does Redfish actually have a shot at it? It seems highly likely, given Intel's confirmation that there are no upcoming updates to the IPMI specification to be expected. The implementation of this solution revolutionizes the whole auto-discovery process, previously anchored solely in the SNMP protocol and its support for network devices. It creates space not just for the automatic detection of dedicated servers, but also facilitates convenient access to detailed information about various server components, including: Processors - with data on: the model, name, and cores. RAM memory - with data on: the model, label, serial number, and memory size expressed in gigabytes. Hard disk drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD) - with data on: the model, manufacturer, serial number, description, and disk size expressed in gigabytes. Network interfaces - with data on: the description, MAC address, name, and operational and administrative status of the port. The whole operation smoothly fits into the pattern of simple and convenient navigation. You just need to enter essential access information - IP address, username, and password; the rest is up to EasyDCIM that automatically identifies the server and adds it to the system with all its components. It is even possible to successfully discover entire subnets – in that case, the subnet has to be provided in CIDR notation, which prompts EasyDCIM to create discovery tasks for all IP addresses in that particular subnet. More than just discovering devices, Redfish integration has broadened EasyDCIM's feature set with remote restart and boot/shutdown actions. Duo SecurityPutting you at ease In the era of an increased number of cybercrime instances and threats, it’s not surprising that the issue of security remains one of the major concerns reported by our clients. Taking a proactive stance, we decided to enrich the Two-Factor Authentication extension with seamless integration with Cisco Duo Security. This two-factor authentication solution based on the new Universal Prompt has been quickly gaining popularity in the market for its robust safety features. When it comes to smartphones, you can download the Duo Mobile app that utilizes the two-step verification function to further enhance login security in EasyDCIM. A bonus touch of simplicity Last but not least, we channeled our efforts into the revamping of how EasyDCIM manages noVNC sessions, i.e. it facilitates the server's KVM console connections by means of the noVNC technology. Now the noVNC session relies on the main SSL certificate of the EasyDCIM domain. This enhancement worked into the IPMI integration extension considerably simplifies configuration, eliminating the need for additional certificates dedicated solely to noVNC sessions. We know exactly how to set the ball rolling, don't we? And we make it roll directly toward the forefront of technology, correcting the course every single time we spot an area for improvement. Now, assuming we have successfully whetted your appetite for more specifics concerning the 1.9.9 release, we highly recommend reviewing the detailed changelog available on our website. View the Changelog!
Piotr Dołęga - EasyDCIM CMO
Piotr Dołęga
EasyDCIM v1.9.8
Release Notes

Proxmox VE 8.X integration in focus – EasyDCIM v1.9.8

It's quite astonishing to think that we're soon to cross the finish line of 2023, isn't it? The latter half of this year unfolds as a high-spirited and action-packed period in the evolution of EasyDCIM, marked notably by the exciting launch of our brand-new website. If you are eager to find out what else we have managed to squeeze into this pivotal chapter, let's dive right into the behind-the-scenes magic of our latest release, version 1.9.8! Keeping Pace with Proxmox VE We consider it a priority for EasyDCIM to stay in sync with the latest Proxmox Virtual Environment. Progressing from version 6 to 7, we are now proudly announcing support for Proxmox VE 8.X, including its 8.1 release delivered just minutes ago! Enhanced with another dedicated system template, the OS Installation extension ensures your infrastructure is always equipped with the latest technology and evolves just as seamlessly. The installation template tailored for both Proxmox VE 8.0 and 8.1 is built on the latest Debian 12 release, which makes it your ticket to the full package of recent upgrades and improvements. A Practical Approach to User Management In response to user suggestions, and the crucial goal of optimizing account management, EasyDCIM v1.9.8 introduces a user-friendly mechanism for merging two client accounts. Gone are the hassles of canceling orders, creating new ones, and reassigning devices. Now, you can effortlessly join two separate accounts, ensuring that all data, including orders, devices, logs, notifications, and API keys, moves smoothly from one account to another. Whether you choose to keep or delete the second client account, the process remains swift and straightforward. Simplified Connectivity To stay ahead of the evolving industry trends, EasyDCIM v1.9.8 brings a significant enhancement to the process of establishing connections between network ports. The new mechanism for assigning server network ports to switch network ports now features an efficient search feature. This makes the entire process quicker and more intuitive for administrators, allowing them to easily manage connections with precise device and network port searches, and thus reducing operational complexities. With a focus on industry’s growing expectations, and a touch of innovation, EasyDCIM v1.9.8 empowers a harmonious data center environment where efficiency and precision take center stage. Embrace the change, navigate through the wide range of possibilities, and make a trouble-free admin experience your new standard! View the Changelog!
Piotr Dołęga - EasyDCIM CMO
Piotr Dołęga
Servers Reselling via WHMCS - EasyDCIM Blog
Business Guides

Leveraging Reseller Networks for Optimal Data Center Growth

With technology advancing at breakneck speed, staying ahead of the curve is essential for any data center looking to thrive. One forward-thinking strategy gaining increasing traction is establishing a reseller network. This article delves into why having resellers on board can revolutionize your business dynamics, and how Products Reseller For WHMCS can help you seamlessly navigate through this vibrant, ever-changing environment. Benefits This collaborative distribution model empowers you to leverage the strengths and circles of independent partners to promote and sell your dedicated servers. As demonstrated through a spectrum of reassuring case studies, the advantages of building a reseller ecosystem only grow over time, extending far beyond mere sales numbers. Challenges However, with great power comes great responsibility. As the number of benefits multiplies, so do the challenges associated with managing resellers, which can be increasingly felt as their ranks continue to grow. While WHMCS stands as the industry standard for orders and billing management in web hosting, it's essential to factor in that there might be a mixed bag of preferences among your resellers. Some may gravitate toward alternative platforms that resonate better with their unique business strategies, which may lead to a bit of a hiccup in communication and workflow. Ensuring a uniform experience for each reseller, no matter their system choices, is crucial for maintaining consistency and professionalism. Bridging the Gap Surprisingly, there didn't appear to be a single comprehensive solution dealing with challenges like these until a few years ago. That's when ModulesGarden took the initiative to build one from the ground up, drawing on their nearly decade-long expertise in WHMCS software development. This is how Products Reseller For WHMCS was born. The module's continuous evolution took an exciting turn for the EasyDCIM community when the integration with another ModulesGarden creation has been announced. Specifically, with the free EasyDCIM Dedicated Servers For WHMCS which streamlines the provisioning and management of EasyDCIM servers, all from within the WHMCS interface. This unique combination of WHMCS modules represents a universal equipment for managing various reselling operations, tracking revenue, and working with multiple reseller groups. Importantly, Products Reseller For WHMCS comes with its own API, allowing resellers to seamlessly offer your servers across different platforms. For providers, the level of control is unmatched, as Products Reseller For WHMCS enables you to organize resellers with similar target markets into easily manageable groups, each equipped with their own individual pricing settings. With detailed graphs and billing summaries generated dynamically in the addon, you are always up to speed - simply drill down into specific servers and timeframes until you find the level of detail you need. It only gets better from here - not only can your resellers handle vital tasks from whatever system they see fit, but they also have the flexibility to dive into the dedicated Reseller Area located right in your WHMCS, complete with insights on end-client orders and applicable pricing rates. This ability to take remote actions on sold servers adds an extra layer of convenience and control into their reselling experience. We can all agree that extending top-notch service to end customers is just as crucial. Products Reseller For WHMCS eliminates the hassle of logging into multiple accounts, allowing the clients acquired by your network to oversee their EasyDCIM servers right from the reseller's platform. Beyond basic actions (booting, rebooting, shutting down), they also enjoy access to dynamic graphs illustrating changes in total traffic. The Big Picture To complete the picture of the module's impressive capacity and energetic progress, let's not forget that Products Reseller For WHMCS has recently celebrated a brand-new release, featuring a dedicated integration with EasyDCIM Dedicated Servers For WHMCS in version 2.2.0 and beyond. Is there a more compelling push to invest in your success? As we wrap up our exploration of reseller networks, remember this: they are not just about business, they are about genuine relationships. So, go ahead, and witness firsthand how building a robust reseller base around your EasyDCIM experience may be just the catalyst your data center needs to soar in today's competitive reality. The journey might start with a single partnership, but the potential is boundless. Seize it! And to all the curious minds looking for an even more in-depth knowledge on the subject, we invite you to explore our documentation, rich with comprehensive insights. View the Guide!
Joanna Byjoś - EasyDCIM Marketing Team Leader
Joanna Byjoś
EasyDCIM v1.9.7
Release Notes

LDAP Authentication and Debian 12 support arrive in EasyDCIM v1.9.7!

Revitalizing our website was quite the adventure, but don't think for a second we've taken our eyes off the main prize - our control panel. On the contrary! Now that we have this sleek modern marketplace where you can smoothly browse all the extensions tailored for EasyDCIM, the timing feels just right to introduce you to something entirely new and outstanding: LDAP Authentication - the star feature of the latest EasyDCIM v1.9.7! This just in: LDAP Authentication Running a data center often means juggling a multitude of users on a daily basis. This involves setting up access permissions customized to each user's role. With LDAP in the mix, this entire process becomes as painless as it gets, not only saving valuable time and enhancing security standards but also streamlining the authentication by centralizing it. Did you know? LDAP was born in 1993 when a group of developers dedicated themselves to making accessing directories easier compared to the older Directory Access Protocol (DAP). They developed a protocol with fewer lines of code, making it a perfect fit for individuals using regular desktop computers. The LDAP Authentication extension, in essence, connects EasyDCIM with the widely used LDAP directory services like Microsoft Active Directory for Windows and OpenLDAP for Linux. Its practical purpose? To make user and administrator authentication in EasyDCIM quick and trouble-free through the use of the trusted LDAP credentials. By handling synchronization jobs and choosing how often they occur, you’re always in control, making sure everything syncs up just the way you like it for your team. Plus, in case of any updates in the LDAP directory, the extension will take care of syncing them up with EasyDCIM automatically. It's that simple! Meet the Bookworm Debian 12, playfully nicknamed "Bookworm" after one of the less known Toy Story characters, has emerged as a serious challenger to Windows 11 in the race for the title of the best operating system. The last stable release of this Linux-based distro opens the door to a genuine alternative that puts power back in the hands of users. An undoubted highlight in Debian 12's bundle of features is its reliable pledge to long-lasting support. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Debian Security and Long Term Support teams, Bookworm gets a comforting five-year coverage. This means you can trust Debian 12 to be your go-to for computing adventures, free from the constant rush to upgrade or switch to newer editions. With OS Installation v2.0.3 released for immediate use, you are invited to benefit fully from a new template crafted specially for Debian 12, streamlining the stages of installation and setup for your added convenience. From picking your preferred time zone and language to effortlessly installing those crucial first-boot scripts - the extension got every step covered, and then some! Maximizing productivity, one detail at a time Before we wrap things up and encourage you to dive into the full changelog for a more in-depth look, let's glide through a couple of additional features in EasyDCIM v1.9.7 that simplify some of your daily rituals in managing a data center. Mass server power control: It doesn't get any easier than this: all you need to do from now on is select a bunch of rows in the "Servers" table, trigger the power action, either on or off, and watch the tasks get queued up for action. It's a real time-saver and a friendlier electricity bill, too! Seamless server swapping during order process: Picture this - you've got an active order, and the dedicated server assigned to it encounters an unexpected hiccup. Yikes! But no worries - now you can swiftly swap it out. No need to cancel and re-order, just make use of the “Replace Asset” option. Easy peasy! Now since you're clued in on all the major updates that have just landed in this release, we recommend taking a closer look at the complete list of changes to track all the charming little details that are still waiting to be explored! View the Changelog!
Piotr Dołęga - EasyDCIM CMO
Piotr Dołęga
All-New EasyDCIM Website
Release Notes

Next EasyDCIM chapter with the brand-new website!

In the context of today's energetic business growth in cyberspace, a website embodies much more than just a digital storefront; it’s like a virtual gateway through which users launch into their journey, shaping the initial impression they have of your offerings. This is why it's crucial for the website to be just as inviting and intuitive in its navigation as the product itself. Here at EasyDCIM, we recognize and wholeheartedly embrace the synergy between our website and the user experience. Key components of our page, such as the client area and documentation, directly impact how users interact with EasyDCIM on a daily basis. Therefore, as we marked the 8th anniversary of EasyDCIM’s inaugural stable release, we set out on a daring mission to reimagine our website. Our goal was crystal clear: transform it into a captivating reflection of the magic that happens within EasyDCIM. Today, after months of passionate work, we are absolutely thrilled to unveil the all-new, redeveloped EasyDCIM website. Where to look for the magic? In short, everywhere! Every single stop on your journey through the EasyDCIM pages has been totally reconstructed, designed from the ground up to incorporate the latest trends, while respecting the browsing patterns and preferences of our beloved users. Here's an intriguing glimpse of what's new! Website: We set our sights on providing the highest possible user comfort – whether you're at a desktop computer, balancing a laptop on your knees, or holding a smartphone or tablet. We recognize that, just like our versatile EasyDCIM control panel, our website must adapt to all kinds of usage scenarios present in today's vibrant virtual reality. Picture this as the red carpet of our digital world. We've rolled out a grand display of all the spectacular features our system offers, supported by nearly 200 authentic screenshots. You'll be captivated in particular by: A brand-new, highly anticipated "Servers Reselling" section, showcasing how seamlessly EasyDCIM integrates with WHMCS with the aim of empowering you to manage resellers for your dedicated servers through the invaluable assistance of automation. The new marketplace consolidates all our extensions, including the freshly developed LDAP Authentication For EasyDCIM which handles the integration with the most popular LDAP directory services. We've also made it easier for you to reach out to us with whatever’s on your mind, and introduced a more user-friendly Help Center, fully integrated with our documentation. Moreover, the website now provides laser-sharp insights into each of the available EasyDCIM plans, guiding you even more thoughtfully to choose the perfect solution for your unique needs. Client Area: This is the cockpit of your EasyDCIM journey, and we've given it a complete makeover. Say goodbye to the old hassles – communication with us is smoother, license management is a breeze, and payments are a snap. We've also rolled out a new panel for affiliates – an exciting opportunity to join hands with us. Documentation: Our documentation reopens with a comprehensively redesigned look and feel, offering a wealth of detailed articles, insightful tips, and invaluable know-how. Go ahead and navigate through endless fresh screenshots elegantly presented in an easily accessible gallery. A custom search mechanism that we've tailored from the ground up ensures you spot precisely what you seek in seconds, and a revamped navigation system promises expedited access to vital information. Moreover, you can now rate our articles anytime you feel like it using convenient buttons on the left-hand side. Your vote means a lot to us, even more than you might realize – it's a quick and effortless way to signal if our documentation is on point. After all, we're crafting it with one goal in mind: to provide all the answers you need! API Documentation: For the tech-savvy adventurers, our API documentation has undergone a restyling for clarity and ease of understanding. It's your portal to unlocking the full potential of EasyDCIM's integration capabilities, now presented in an accessible format. Industry Blog: Completing this transformation wouldn't be the same without introducing our all-new Blog, equipped with modern layout and restructured filtering, and, perhaps most thrilling of all, full mobile compatibility. Why? Because we know you're on the move, and we want to be right there with you. Our central focus is to make your reading experience enjoyable and engaging – especially when it comes to following the path of the EasyDCIM growth. With this extensive visual and functional evolution, this place is now your ultimate destination for all things data center: from dedicated release notes for every new EasyDCIM version to insightful guides, in-depth expertise, and industry-specific tips and tricks. It's more than just a blog; it's your Data Center Geeks Hub! ♥ Join the Journey! We proudly invite you to take a mindful stroll through these transformative changes. Our revitalized website isn't just a tribute to EasyDCIM's genuine spirit of innovation; it's a testament to our commitment to making your user experience a one to remember. Your feedback is our compass, and we eagerly await your thoughts and insights in the comments below. Together, we'll continue shaping the future of EasyDCIM, making it an even more extraordinary destination for our remarkable community. Embrace the New!
Piotr Dołęga - EasyDCIM CMO
Piotr Dołęga
EasyDCIM v1.9.6
Release Notes

EasyDCIM v1.9.6 – The evolution continues with PHP 8.1 and Unix OS!

Watching as technology nowadays bends over backwards to keep up with rapid shifts in customer requirements, we continue to progress in our own mission to deliver the equally cutting-edge offerings within our platform. It is by following the current industry breakthroughs and actively responding to user demands that EasyDCIM soldifies its position as a reputable DCIM solution provider. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the key highlights of the all-new 1.9.6 version and how this update contributes to enhanced security, seamless adoption of the latest innovations, and enriched operational potential. So, let's dive right in! PHP 8.1 Support EasyDCIM users who have eagerly awaited this upgrade can now leverage the benefits of PHP 8.1 translating to a safer and more efficient experience. The transition to PHP 8.1 involved a series of intricate changes within the platform, including the development of a new installer and updater specifically designed for the latest PHP version. Not only does this effort result in a significant stride toward enhancing the overall application security, but it also guarantees seamless compatibility with the most up-to-date technological standards. FreeBSD 13.1 System Template While the technical advancements made in EasyDCIM v1.9.6 lay a solid foundation for improved performance, the spotlight should be also put on the updated OS Installation extension. Rumor has it that FreeBSD has performed a prominent role in the development of Apple OS. FreeBSD 13.1 is a significant new addition to EasyDCIM's repertoire of system templates, as it expands the range of supported operating systems beyond the realms of Linux and Windows. With its Unix-based, open source architecture, and reputation for high stability and reliability, FreeBSD presents a robust OS alternative and unleashes new opportunities for diverse infrastructure setups, integrating well with both server and desktop environments. Extended VLAN Management Another extension stepping into the spotlight, Switch Management v1.4.2 carries a particularly noteworthy feature - comprehensive support for Juniper switches running JUNOS 20. With the introduction of a new driver, you are free to benefit from a full toolset responsible e.g. for assigning VLANs to a switch network port or updating the status and speed of network ports. At EasyDCIM, we leave no stone unturned to showcase our dedication to leading the technology race with every new platform release. If you're eager to dive into all the details of the 1.9.6 version, we highly recommend checking out the comprehensive changelog right on our website. View the Changelog!
Piotr Dołęga - EasyDCIM CMO
Piotr Dołęga
EasyDCIM v1.9.5
Release Notes

EasyDCIM v1.9.5 cuts the frills of custom ISO files management!

Having the inquisitive mind of technology explorers and industry trend followers that we are, we focus habitually on what new features can still power up EasyDCIM, but never lose sight of how to constantly improve the range of existing functionality. The all-new 1.9.5 release, arriving with substantially more freedom in terms of OS installation, leaves no room for doubt that if something can be done better, smarter or in a more flexible way, we won’t aim for anything less. Using custom ISO images? No sweat! To fully understand how much of a difference EasyDCIM v1.9.5 really makes, let's first take a look back at how the platform worked so far. Up to now, the OS Installation extension has allowed the main process to be handled by means of predefined installation templates, based mostly on data repositories of distributions like Debian, Ubuntu or CentOS. This solution has proven to work perfectly well... unless the client needs to install some custom operating system based on an ISO image on the server. That is where OS Installation For EasyDCIM 2.0.1 comes into play. With the brand-new option to mount ISO images by end customers via noVNC sessions, they can easily carry out the installation of any preferred ISO-based operating system. As you surely would like, EasyDCIM has got you covered when it comes to all essential steps involved in the process, including setting limits and automatically removing files that are no longer needed. The list of OS templates goes on Another notable point of growth marked in the timeline of OS Installation extension concerns the choice of available system templates which now covers also Fedora 37 Server and CloudLinux 9. The range of performable actions is no different to what you've already grown accustomed to while using other installation templates, but if you need your memory refreshed, here’s a quick run-through: Time zone and language configuration Disk partitioning Creation of user accounts and root password Configuration of network interfaces Installation of additional system packages as well as post-installation and first-boot scripts Next layer of security Now if there's one thing that can catch the attention of administrators, it's the security of their data centers! As a guaranteed protection against any sort of unauthorized access, EasyDCIM now provides the ability to determine the IP addresses allowed into the backend section of the platform. To be precise, the new release empowers admins to specify either individual IP addresses or whole subnets from which the management panel can be entered. Because we can all agree that no amount of security is too much! The official changelog thoroughly details everything you need to know about EasyDCIM v1.9.5, including aspects that didn't make it into this short article - why don’t you start getting more familiar with their wide-ranging benefits straight away? View the Changelog!
Piotr Dołęga - EasyDCIM CMO
Piotr Dołęga
EasyDCIM v1.9.4
Release Notes

EasyDCIM v1.9.4 with Email Summaries – Never skip a beat again!

Every business owner experiences it to some extent – the inflow of so much data, that it can become practically impossible to keep up with the constant development of your enterprise. Well, it doesn’t have to be this way, and certainly not with the latest EasyDCIM v1.9.4 and the spanking new addition of Email Summaries, which will ensure you stay on top of your time-consuming duties better than ever before! Vital insight now at a single click! There must have been many situations with unfavorable circumstances which you found yourself in, not allowing you to conveniently and, more importantly, quickly gain access to information about what’s going on in your system. From now on, you can happily relax and stay up-to-date by having every piece of news handed to you not exactly on a plate, but in the form of personalized Email Summaries. Not every piece of data bares the same importance, so it is entirely up to you which ones should be received, and how often. Daily, weekly, monthly – however you like! With 7 widgets to choose from, you’ll be able to highly customize your email notifications, including exactly what you want to take a closer look at. So, what are the aspects EasyDCIM can let you know about? Location Statistics Presents information on all locations, including statistics on data and power consumption, rack occupancy and server availability. General Statistics Includes data on new orders, devices and parts, as well as completed OS installations, server reboots and updated devices. New Orders Shows the details of each order, including the customer data, order date and its status. Top Servers By Traffic Contains information on servers that consume the highest data transfer amounts. Top Servers By Uptime Indicates the servers that stay active the longest. Top PDUs By Usage Lists information on the PDU devices that consume the most power in Amps. Top Worst Devices By Polling Time Displays a list of devices, for which the data polling process takes an unusually long time. This is nowhere near the end of customization possibilities, as you are also empowered to personally select the administrators that will receive these email messages, perfectly enclosed in a brand new, modern template that ensures clarity and accessibility. The range of opportunities widened Say hello to OS Installation For EasyDCIM 2.0! This eagerly anticipated update integrates well with new versions of our system templates to allow the automatic installation of Vmware ESXi 8.0 and Oracle Linux 9, as well as the freshly added VzLinux 8, an environment that has not been previously supported! Each of them successfully handles the crucial processes, such as time zone and language configuration, disk partitioning, the creation of user accounts and root password, the configuration of network interfaces and the installation of additional system packages, as well as post-installation and first boot scripts.
Piotr Dołęga - EasyDCIM CMO
Piotr Dołęga
How To Make Web Hosting Clients Satisfied - EasyDCIM Blog
Business Guides

10 Ways For Web Hosting Providers To Better Appeal To Customers

Owning and operating a web hosting business is about more than just the technology. In fact, one could strongly argue that attributes such as disk space or RAM come second to the most important part: the customers. After all, a web hosting enterprise is not much of a business at all without them. While technology is important and ultimately drives customer success, a number of other, often overlooked factors goes into making a company thrive in this particular industry. In this post, we will outline ten things that web hosting providers can do to keep clients satisfied. While this is far from exhaustive, it does provide a good foundation to best fulfill your customers' expectations and make them happy for the long term. 1. Keep your hardware and software up to date Nothing will drive clients away faster than a security breach of their website or application. One way these happen? Insecure networks or hardware. Whether you are offering bare metal servers or shared hosting accounts, take great care to apply all patches and updates in a timely manner. It’s extremely important to do so, otherwise you might find yourself in a situation where you’ve left your customers open to nothing other than potential security breaches. Not only will this negatively affect their trust, but it could also lead to refunds or even lawsuits if any client was affected by the breach. For this reason, it is crucial to remain extremely careful when applying patches and updates for both networks and hardware. This includes making sure that all of your servers are patched (or replaced) before they can be used again after an attack. 2. Offer round-the-clock customer service One of the best ways to keep clients content and make your company stand out from the competition is to offer 24/7 support and customer service. Many of your customers are likely to work on websites and applications outside of standard business hours. Additionally, if they are located in different parts of the world, then providing support only during specified hours is unlikely to meet their needs. By being in a position to help the clientele at all times you are showing that you care about their success, which is directly related to your own! It is worth noting that providing round-the-clock service and support can be very expensive. One way to lessen the costs is offering only critical support during your typical non-working hours. For example, you could set up a mailbox for less important inquiries that you only check once a day while a separate inbox is connected to the mobile phone of support team members. This way the primary support needs can be monitored at all times while lesser priority inquiries can be addressed at a later, more convenient time. Many web hosting companies even charge an extra fee for 24/7 support, which can be a great way to increase revenue and offset costs. 3. Stay current with ever-changing technology New technical solutions get released on a regular basis when it comes to servers, storage, and connectivity. The EasyDCIM control panel also frequently introduces new features that benefit not just web hosting providers, but their customers as well. Sometimes these technologies introduce better security, other times they make servers, applications, or websites easier to use. What all providers need is to stay updated on what is new in order to offer their clientele exactly what they are searching for. From a business perspective, your offerings should be up to date so you can remain in line with or even ahead of competitors. On the other hand, you want to offer as much value as possible to those that choose to do business with you. Keeping abreast of new technology allows your company to achieve both of these goals. 4. Allow customers to restart servers on their own Many web hosting companies do not realize how absolutely crucial it is for their clients to be able to restart their servers independently. They may not sell dedicated servers, or simply do not receive that many restart tickets and, as a result, overlook this. But customers that utilize dedicated servers absolutely do not want to have to wait for a support specialist to open a ticket, log their information, and THEN restart a server when they could do it themselves if only they were granted permission. Servers can require restarts for a number of reasons. From new software updates requiring a restart to purging old files, some activities can only get carried out via a restart, which is all the more reason to give clients the ability to restart servers on their own, just like EasyDCIM does. 5. Offer flexible payment options... The majority of web hosting providers offer two types of payment options: monthly or annual. Annual payments often carry a discount in the form of a "free" month or two. And while these options tend to work for most customers, what about payment options themselves? Some hosts accept credit card payments, others ACH or wire. However, physical checks still tend to be the preferred method of payment in many countries. As a web hosting provider though, you should definitely consider new forms of payment, such as Bitcoin. Additionally, offering multi-year payment terms can be a great way to not just lock in customers for longer terms, but also serve those that have complex procurement processes. Pay-for-use or pay-for-consumption models have been popular for years with public cloud providers. Traditional hosts should consider offering similar pricing models when possible, as more and more businesses in many sectors are looking to maximize their return on investment by paying only for what they use. These various payment terms are not right for each individual web hosting provider, of course. However, knowing what works best for your customers is always a worthwhile business strategy and payment terms are no different. 6. ...And reasonable prices Nobody likes overpriced products, but picking out something that is not expensive can become quite a difficult task. Web hosting providers need to make sure that their prices are reasonable in order to give customers what they need without breaking their budgets. It is important to note that "reasonable" pricing does not necessarily mean "lower" pricing. As more and more web hosting services become commoditized, thus driving prices down, it is imperative that the providers work to deliver value that matches the prices they do charge. Better performance and support are great ways to add customers and increase revenue. Even better, a reasonable price for excellent web hosting service is much higher than a price for sub-par, lower-quality one. 7. Make it easy to upgrade Customers are not always fully certain of what they need when it comes time to upgrade their hosting, but that does not mean that they should be forced into a package in order to save money. All providers need to make sure their clients can easily upgrade and downgrade in order to get the features that they want without having to pay for anything extra. Today's traffic patterns for websites and applications can change in the blink of an eye. A big announcement or a viral blog post can bring in colossal scores of traffic. Seasonal businesses might be super busy for weeks at a time, just before their doors close completely for months. What you should do, is to always keep your offer scalable and allow your customers to upgrade (and downgrade) effortlessly, based on their needs. No one wants to feel stuck in the wrong solution because their web hosting provider does not have a clear path to easily change their plan. 8. Check-in from time to time Web hosting providers often fail to stay in touch with their customers. One way to reduce churn and benefit from the upsell and cross-sell opportunities is to regularly reach out to individual clients. For your highest value clientele, a simple phone call or video meeting once a quarter or a couple of times each year can go a long way. Firstly, clients will be glad to know you care about their business and their goals. Secondly, and more importantly, these conversations or meetings can help uncover areas of opportunity for you both to expand your relationship. Make it a point to review support tickets prior to the meeting and address any concerns or comments. Customers will be amazed by your involvement and will start to see your business as a partner instead of as a vendor. 9. Proactively communicate with customers In the same vein, a regular newsletter or release note about feature introductions or improvements will regularly bring customers up to speed. For example, we have recently emailed our clients about implementing the "Mass Edit" toolkit as part of the EasyDCIM platform. This way, they immediately got to know new tools and functionalities which not only strengthen our relationship with them, but more importantly, helps them grow their businesses. 10. Keep an eye on the competition Barring a bad support experience or outage, many clients of web hosting companies are disinclined to switch to a new provider. A great deal of churn with hosts, particularly for those providing VPS and dedicated servers to business clients, comes when a project ends or a resource is no longer needed as opposed to canceling the service with the intention to move it elsewhere. However, one area of vulnerability may well be all it takes to make web hosting providers lose their clientele to competitors - not keeping up with features and functions offered elsewhere on the market. One such example is automatic backups. As recently as a decade ago automatic backups were not available from many (most?) web hosting providers. They have become so popular during this time though, that it would be a great disappointment if one’s offer did not include them. A great way to keep customers satisfied with their choice of provider is to make sure your offerings match or exceed the market standard. To sum up: Focus on the customer! Web hosting providers should strive to create a customer-centric business model. This includes web hosting that is fast and reliable, as well as effortless upgrades and downgrades when needed. While the best way to keep clients happy may vary from one person or company to another, you should definitely know what your target audience needs so you can provide them with those solutions. This way you will ensure their cooperation now and in the future. Take care of your customers and they will take care of you. Do you have questions about how EasyDCIM can help your web hosting business deliver on the promise of greater customer happiness? Get in touch!
Maksymilian Kulig - EasyDCIM Marketing Specialist
Maksymilian Kulig

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