Troubleshooting Flashcards
Step 1 of Troubleshooting Methodology
Identify the problem: Clearly define the issue. What is not working as expected? Gathering info from log files and errors messages, questioning users, identifying symptoms, determine recent changes, duplicating the problem, or narrowing the scope of the problem.
Step 2: Establish a Theory of Probable Cause
Based on the identified problem, formulate a hypothesis about the likely cause. Questioning the obvious to identify the cause of the problem, considering multilevel approaches, including top to bottom or bottom to top for layered technologies (such as networks).
Step 3: Test the Theory to Determine Cause
Perform diagnostic tests or use tools to verify or refute your theory. Analyze the results to confirm if your hypothesis is correct or if you need to revise it.
Step 4: Establish a Plan of Action and Implement the Solution
If your theory is confirmed, develop a plan to fix the problem.
Step 5: Verify Full System Functionality and Implement Preventative Measures
After implementing a solution, test the system to ensure it’s working correctly and the problem is resolved. Consider implementing preventative measures or best practices to avoid the same issue in the future.
Step 6: Document Findings, Actions, and Outcomes
Record/document the problem, the troubleshooting steps taken, the solution implemented, and the final outcome. This documentation can be helpful for future troubleshooting and for sharing knowledge with others or be useful in the future when similar problem arises.
Document my troubleshooting steps, changes, updates, theories, and research.