System Performance Tuning answers one of the most fundamental
questions you can ask about your computer: How can I get it to do more
work without buying more hardware? In the current economic downturn,
performance tuning takes on a new importance. It allows system
administrators to make the best use of existing systems and minimize the
purchase of new equipment. Well-tuned systems save money and time that
would otherwise be wasted dealing with slowdowns and errors. Performance
tuning always involves compromises; unless system administrators know
what the compromises are, they can't make intelligent decisions.Tuning
is an essential skill for system administrators who face the problem of
adapting the speed of a computer system to the speed requirements
imposed by the real world. It requires a detailed understanding of the
inner workings of the computer and its architecture. System Performance
Tuning covers two distinct areas: performance tuning, or the art of
increasing performance for a specific application, and capacity
planning, or deciding what hardware best fulfills a given role.
Underpinning both subjects is the science of computer architecture. This
book focuses on the operating system, the underlying hardware, and their
interactions. Topics covered include:
For system administrators who want a hands-on introduction to system
performance, this is the book to recommend.
