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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
