SUSE LINUX Enterprise Server 9 Administrators Handbook

Chapter 3. Booting and Shutting Down the Server

This chapter explores the various states a server goes through during startup and shutdown procedures. We first examine the path a machine takes from the moment power is applied to a fully running system and how it can be shut down safely.

We also discuss the concept of runlevels and how they are used to control the various applications available on a server. We then explore the preparations required to facilitate system recovery should the server experience difficulties.

As with all things, it is best to start at the beginning: boot loaders.