Knowledge base.

Working notes for people who own software but do not write it. Search the index, run the checklist, borrow what helps.

Index

Search the notes

Search notes

KB-01 · Keep an access register

A simple spreadsheet listing every system (domain registrar, DNS, hosting, app-store accounts, email, code repository), who has admin access and where recovery codes live. Review it whenever someone joins or leaves.

KB-02 · Backups: the restore is the test

Schedule backups automatically, keep at least one copy off-site, and restore to a separate environment every quarter. Record how long it took — that is your realistic recovery time.

KB-03 · Email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC)

Three DNS records that tell receiving servers your mail is genuine. Without them, invoices and password resets land in spam. Start DMARC in monitoring mode before enforcing.

KB-04 · Preparing an app store submission

Have ready: a privacy policy URL, support URL, screenshots for each required device size, data-collection answers that match the code, reviewer login details and a short note explaining any unusual features.

KB-05 · Accessibility minimum for any site

Every image has a text alternative, every form field has a label, everything works by keyboard, focus is visible, contrast is at least 4.5:1 for body text, and motion respects reduced-motion settings.

KB-06 · Dependency updates without drama

Update little and often. Read changelogs for major versions, run automated tests, deploy to staging first, and keep the previous release ready to roll back.

KB-07 · Writing a useful fault report

What you were doing, what you expected, what happened, the exact time, the device and browser, and a screenshot or the exact error text.

KB-08 · Website migration and redirects

Export every existing URL before you start. Map each one to its new home with a permanent (301) redirect, test them in bulk, and check search console for errors after launch.

Checklist

Monthly operations check

Domain and TLS certificate expiry dates reviewed
Security updates applied to CMS, server or app dependencies
Latest backup present and last restore test recorded
Access register reviewed for leavers
Uptime and error alerts going to a monitored mailbox
Contact and support forms tested end to end

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Credits

Photo credits

All photographs are licensed stock images used purely for illustration. They do not depict ATS Incorporated staff, premises, clients or projects.

a laptop computer sitting on top of a desk — original; licence: Unsplash. Cropped for layout.
Mobile app interface design with map and social feed — original; licence: Unsplash. Cropped for layout.
Free High-tech server rack in a secure data center with network cables and hardware components. Stock Photo — original; licence: Pexels. Cropped for layout.
Free Detailed shot of Ethernet cables connected to server ports highlighting technology infrastructure. Stock Photo — original; licence: Pexels. Cropped for layout.