Application to provide UNIX performance analysis, bottleneck determination and resolution (Master of Software Engineering)

Abstract

Performance analysis is a critical, yet often overlooked part of System Administration. Not only is there a substantial amount of data to interpret, but the guidelines for determining a performance problem are often complex and can vary between different UNIX operating systems. This manuscript describes the development of FIREpower, an application that is able to analyze UNIX performance statistics. The tool provides a graphical representation of the data, reports potential bottlenecks on the machine, as well as dynamically creates scripts that will alter the machine configuration in an attempt to increase system performance. This tool is designed to run on any UNIX server and addresses operating system dependencies by way of an expert system.