Question:
Out of space in the /var directory on a Unix/Linux Server...?
Samwell
2007-11-16 07:48:27 UTC
We're out of space and it's bringing the server to its knees... the only trouble is we don't know what files and directories we can safely delete without causing problems... Any advice/help very gratefully received!
Five answers:
Dan M
2007-11-16 12:21:16 UTC
Have a look in /var/log, it is possible that something is filling up a log file for some reason or that logrotate is not doing its thing.



In a similar vein, if it is a mail server, the mail is stored in /var/spool/mail and users NEVER delete their mail...



A little digging with the du command should show what has eaten the space.



Regards, Dan.
GorbanZus
2007-11-16 07:55:38 UTC
hello,



1. first run "df" and check how much filespace you still have.

2. next, try to clean up the trash/recycle bin if you can.

3. next, if you can do samba to windows, transfer backup files to either a windows machine or another linux machine. :)

4. execute "locate *games*" ... i think some games are still there so you might want to delete them.

5. in /home/ directory, there might be entries for users who may not need their directories anymore but make sure to ask them first :)



I hope this helps. if ever u can, before even deleting ... backup all the necessary files.



=) good luck ...
2007-11-18 01:31:16 UTC
If you are running Debian by any chance, remember to try out 'aptitude autoclean' as well.



Just adding my bit to the already given out suggestions.
Runa
2007-11-16 08:48:41 UTC
Add another disk drive.
sydney_22_f
2007-11-16 07:52:21 UTC
start with anything .log or .log.? where ? is a number


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