Topic: We need a systems administrator!

[pnegyesi]

"Dear autopuzzles community,
Since the database crash - which I deeply regret - I have changed the database engine, set up several layers of backup (a database slave at another provider, daily weekly monthly and quarterly snapshots on machine and backed up remotely daily together with the images). In the coming few weeks I expect to switch servers - we will announce a very brief downtime, not even the IP address will change so it will be brief - moving the site to a more modern, fully SSD based server (the database is already on an SSD). This is all well but the forum software is ancient and very likely full of security holes. I have neither the time nor the willingness to dig into SMF. If the community is interested in pitching in some money I will find someone to upgrade and keep the forum up to date. Or, of course, if someone has the expertise please come forward. I do not yet know how much this would cost I would guess about $100 one time and 20-30  USD monthly ongoing. We can keep going as we did for years but I would rather upgrade."

That's the message from my brother, who tries to keep the site running. We already discussed with Ultra and he's not really prepared for this. So fellow AutoPuzzlers, what do you think?

[nicanary]

My knowledge of IT is of a child-like standard, but if you say that's what is required, then I agree. As far as I can make out, your family has been an outstanding servant to AP for many years, and I reckon it's time for you to have a break, and let a paid professional take responsibility.

I am not a wealthy man, but the kind of sum you are talking about is perfectly acceptable and manageable. I am willing to commit to a monthly subscription - I really would rather have this, than no AP at all.

[pnegyesi]

We don't retire My brother is here to stay. What we don't have is a proper system-administrator so the AP site can fulfill its potential! That's why we need some money.

Thanks for your offer

[Allan L]

There was a time when Charlie asked us for donations and (I presume) several of us contributed.
We old lags would probably do so again if asked, but what I would not like to see is this becoming a subscription-only site as we'd never get new members - and we've been fortunate that the supply of new members continues, despite all the temptingly simple Autos having already been Puzzled.

[pnegyesi]

no, this is not a subscription thing, we just need a small cache. Thanks

[Carnut]

Always happy to contribute.
Voluntary contributions will, I'm sure, do the trick.

[el_monty]

I'm not a veteran like you guys but I'm willing to chip in too if needed. Even if I feel that I arrived late to the party, Autopuzzles has brought me so much knowledge, entertainment (and perhaps addiction!) in the time since I signed up, I will be happy to help!

[nicanary]

I think this appointment and the associated cost can be dealt with when we find out the longer-term future of the site. It needs to be taken into account by any potential purchaser, but there's an outside chance the SA will never be needed!