Runbook

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In a computer science system or network, a runbook is a routine compilation of the procedures and operations being made by the administrator or operator of the system. Runbooks are often used in information technology departments of commercial companies and NOCs as a reference for system administrators. Runbooks can be in either electronic or in physical book form. Typically, a runbook will contain the procedures to begin, stop and supervise the system. It can also contain descriptions for special request handling, and handling of contingencies. An effective runbook will allow other operators, with prerequisite expertise, to effectively manage and troubleshoot a system.

Runbooks are typically created by top tier managed service providers. They include procedures for every anticipated scenario and generally use step-by-step decision trees to determine the effective course of action given a particular scenario.

[edit] Further reading

• Langston, Mark C.; Skelly, Hal (2003). Documentation Writing for System Administrators, SAGE Short Topics in System Administration. USENIX, p. 42f.