How to check CPU & RAM usage
RAM (Physical Memory) plays a crucial role in temporarily storing and making data available for running a website. High RAM usage can lead to errors such as 502, 503, and 504, indicating issues with server responsiveness. Several factors can contribute to high RAM usage, including:
- Poorly optimized website code
- Heavy themes or plugins
- Increased visitor traffic
- DDoS attacks
When CPU or RAM usage reaches 100%, it signifies that your website is utilizing all allocated resources, leading to significant slowdowns and potential timeouts. Over-utilization can also strain server resources shared with other users, impacting overall server performance.
Checking Resource Usage in cPanel
cPanel provides built-in features to monitor your website’s resource usage. This includes statistics on CPU usage, RAM usage, entry processes, faults, and input/output (I/O) usage over different time frames.
How to View Resource Usage
- Log in to your cPanel.
- Quick View:
- For a quick overview, check the CPU Usage in the right-hand sidebar.
- Detailed Information:
- Scroll down to the Metrics section and click on Use of Resources.
- This will redirect you to an overview of resource usage.
- Click on the “Details” link for a more detailed breakdown.
- Usage Reports:
- You can view statistical charts and reports for the current day, week, or month.
- Analyze the Usage Report section to understand CPU/RAM stability during the specified period.
If you see a message indicating, “Your account has been limited in the past 24 hours,” click on Details to review the limitations and address any underlying issues.
Steps to Take When Resource Limits Are Exceeded
If you find that your website has exceeded its resource limits, consider the following actions:
- Review Plugins and Themes:
- Ensure all plugins, modules, and themes are updated to their latest versions. Outdated software can consume unnecessary resources.
- Optimize Your Website:
- Work with a web developer to optimize your site’s code, images, and database queries to reduce resource usage.
- Monitor Resource Usage:
- Regularly check your resource usage in cPanel to identify trends and potential issues before they escalate.
If the above steps do not resolve the resource usage issue, you may need to consider upgrading your hosting plan. Contact your hosting provider for assistance in evaluating your options.
Importance of Resource Management
Being aware of your server resources is vital for maintaining optimal website performance. An optimized website not only loads faster but also enhances user experience. Consistent overuse of CPU and RAM may lead to warning emails or even temporary suspension, depending on the severity of the usage.
Regularly monitoring and optimizing your website can prevent these issues, ensuring smooth operation and better service for your visitors.
