Server Maintainence Status Report

Tuesday, March 25, 2003 by Frogboy | Discussion: WinCustomize News

Right now the libraries are down for most users. In preparation for the launch of SDCentral, we are creating redundant servers (i.e. east coast, west coast) for users to obtain our software from.

But doing so is a very slow process since there is so much to transfer. As a result, bandwidth is at a premium. Added to that, Stardock is launching Galactic Civilizations (https://www.galciv.com) which is further using up our limited bandwidth capacity as well as pushing our SQL databases to the limit.

We hope to, in the next 48 hours complete the transition and then try to reconcile the increased SQL server activity.

During that time, only Stardock Customers, WinCustomize subscribers, and users with Apprentice access or higher (mostly authors) can access the libraries.

If you are currently logged on anonymously and have purchased Object Desktop or WindowBlinds or any other Stardock product, you can create an account and then tie your account to your Stardock account (the one created for you when you purchased any of our software) and you will be able to access the library. If you don't have Object Desktop and would like to use this opportunity to get it, visit https://www.stardock.com/order.asp

Alternatively, you can purchase a WinCustomize subscription by going here: https://www.wincustomize.com/store/

I realize some people will object to this. The problem is that right now, we just don't have the bandwidth to get done what we need to do. And since 90% of our bandwidth is consumed by non-logged on users or users who are not customers, it is the logical to disable that and allow those who are actually the ones who pay for the bandwidth to continue to download the skins and themes which still enables us to finish the file transfers from Atlanta to California servers.

We apologize for the inconvenience. Within 48 hours we should be back.
DPG
Reply #1 Tuesday, March 25, 2003 11:02 PM
Brad, before any comments from anyone who doesn't understand the reality of this site and Stardock, I want to thank you, the admins, and MANY skin artists that have enriched my life by sharing your/their talent with the masses.
Tecumseh
Reply #2 Tuesday, March 25, 2003 11:12 PM
Brad ...

Your position is more than reasonable.
Frogboy
Reply #3 Tuesday, March 25, 2003 11:56 PM
Thanks guys. I really feel very bad having to have the libraries down at all for anyone.
ncwhiz
Reply #4 Tuesday, March 25, 2003 11:57 PM
I have just created an account here at WinCustomize is that free? Or does it cost something? - email , [email protected]

Thanks
Frogboy
Reply #5 Tuesday, March 25, 2003 11:57 PM
It's free to create an account.
ncwhiz
Reply #6 Tuesday, March 25, 2003 11:58 PM
My first day and the site is down.... Very reasonable soltuion though...
_Martin_
Reply #7 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 4:38 AM
Echo all the positive stuff above. Good work guys
nwbigdog
Reply #8 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 5:03 AM
Being from the west coast all I have to say is cool!!!
Wonderful site with wonderful artists and now even faster downloads.
feline
Reply #9 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 6:35 AM
more servers!
kthxbye
Reply #10 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 10:17 AM
As long as the aftermath isn't like the last time something similar to this had to happen!
werewolf
Reply #11 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 10:18 AM
reasonable process. thanks for the heads up. looking forward to many more years.

LordDrgn
Reply #12 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 11:43 AM
Very reasonable. Us non-stardock customers are appreciative for this wonderful site and all the things it has to offer.
ez sd
Reply #13 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 7:20 PM
Completly cool, the only thing that would've bugged me is if you didn't say anything about the down time, but since you did, it's all good.
MoRRiSoN_
Reply #14 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 9:24 PM
Does anyone know when the libraries will be back up, its almost Midnight on wenesday....
Frogboy
Reply #15 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 10:04 PM
Hopefully sometime tomorrow.
The Mechanic
Reply #16 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 10:15 PM
I realize some people will object to this. The problem is that right now, we just don't have the bandwidth to get done what we need to do. And since 90% of our bandwidth is consumed by non-logged on users or users who are not customers, it is the logical to disable that and allow those who are actually the ones who pay for the bandwidth to continue to download the skins and themes.

SO IF YOU CONTRIBUTE TO THE SITE BY BUYING PRODUCTS YOU CAN USE THE LIBRARIES.........IF YOU ARE A CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR WHO UPLOADS SKINS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE BUYING YOU ARE OUT OF LUCK???????????????

SOUNDS LIKE IT.....MAYBE I'LL START GOING TO DEVIANTART.COM AND CONTRIBUTING TO ANOTHER CAUSE.
SuperheroCanadian
Reply #17 Wednesday, March 26, 2003 11:05 PM
hhmmmm im not sure u seem to get it, the servers are under maintence right now. Libraries are being moved around, so there limiting to those who have paid or contributed. There under maitnce so others can have faster access.

I fully support you brad keep up the great work!
JManiac
Reply #18 Thursday, March 27, 2003 12:21 AM
My First time My First day... ok... library is down...
btw i have a question...

When will it work again? 5-10 hours from now or what?

thanks..... >
Frogboy
Reply #19 Thursday, March 27, 2003 3:02 AM
Mechanic, I have increasd your access due to your contributions of your Media Player skins.

Generally speaking, most skin authors do have access to the libraries but it isn't automated.
T-Man
Reply #20 Thursday, March 27, 2003 2:13 PM
ok, good news. The libraries are back online!

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