Dedicated Linux Server Health Check, Upgrade Advice & Migration

Project Overview:

I am looking for an experienced Linux server specialist to review the health and setup of our current dedicated server with Fasthosts and advise whether we should proceed with an upgrade and migration.

We currently run 3 live websites on a dedicated Ubuntu 20.04 server via Plesk. The server has 32GB RAM. A recent backup failure flagged a RAM issue where the system removed the snapshot during the backup process. No further alerts have come through since, but it has raised concerns about overall capacity and stability.

Fasthosts have recommended either optimisation or upgrading.

Proposed Upgrade (from Fasthosts):

• Server: E3-1270-64-HDD
• RAM: 64GB
• OS option: Ubuntu 24.04 with Plesk

What I Need From You:

Phase 1 – Server Health Check & Review

• Review current server setup (Ubuntu 20.04, Plesk Obsidian)
• Check RAM usage, CPU, disk, services, and general performance
• Review backup configuration and failure cause
• Identify any inefficiencies or risks
• Confirm whether upgrade is genuinely required or if optimisation would suffice

Phase 2 – Upgrade Recommendation

• Provide a clear recommendation:
Stay and optimise OR
Upgrade and migrate

• If upgrading, confirm whether the proposed Fasthosts server is suitable

Important Constraint:
We must remain on PHP 8.2.30.
No PHP upgrades to be carried out as part of this work due to compatibility with existing code.

Phase 3 – Migration (if approved)

• Full migration of 3 websites to new server
• Maintain Plesk structure and configurations
• Ensure:
Minimal downtime
All services tested post-migration
Backups working correctly

Key Requirements:

• Strong experience with:
Linux (Ubuntu)
Plesk
Fasthosts / similar environments
Server migrations
Backup systems (Acronis or similar)

• Must work carefully with live production sites
• Clear communication and sensible approach

Pricing:

I require a fixed price for:

1. Health check and recommendation
2. Migration if needed

Additional Notes:
• Current issue appears linked to RAM during backups, but system otherwise looks stable
• Storage is nearing capacity on backup system