How often are checks performed?

HostGuardian checks each entry every 5 minutes. HostGuardian can also check each entry every minute, but must be activated upon request. Accounts that check multiple devices may take longer than 1 minute to complete, so a 5 minute polling rate is default.

What ports can be monitored?

HostGuardian can monitor any port that is open on a given host. Many ports are blocked or firewalled for security reasons. If a port that requires monitoring is blocked from our servers, we can not monitor that port. However, you can add our servers to your access list to allow us to monitor those protected ports. Email support for more information.

What are some of the more common ports to monitor?

21 - FTP
22 - SSH
23 - Telnet
25 - SMTP
53 - DNS
80 - HTTP (Web Server)
110 - POP
143 - IMAP
443 - HTTPS (Secure Web Server)
1433 - Microsoft SQL Server
3306 - MySQL Server

What processes/services can be monitored?

Any process that returns an ASCII reply to a port connect can be monitored with ProcessGuardian. By default, HostGuardian provides process checks for POP, IMAP, FTP, SMTP, and SSH. Email support for custom process checks.

Where does the keyword for ContentGuardian need to exist?

The keyword can exist anywhere in the web document. This includes text in an HTML comment.

How do I know my host/site is working correctly after an alert?

HostGuardian will notify you when the host/site responds correctly to your specifications.

What types of payments do you accept?

HostGuardian prefers to use credit card billing through PayPal. This allows us to automatically charge your card monthly. If you prefer to pay via check, money order, or wire transfer, please contact us.

Can I disable monitoring for a specific device?

Any device can be marked "Inactive" through the HostGuardian toolset. If a device is marked "Inactive", no alerts will be sent regarding the device, and no checks will be performed.

Can I disable monitoring on all of my devices?

HostGuardian toolset allows you to disable all monitoring and alerts through the "Options" menu.

Why do I need to use HostGuardian if I already monitor my servers internally?

HostGuardian performs checks on your devices remotely. This means that HostGuardian is reaching your site in the same way that a client or customer would be accessing your site. Internal monitoring tools can not verify connectivity, latency, and packet loss, HostGuardian can.

How long does it take to have my HostGuardian account setup?

Your HostGuardian account is setup immediately after you signup using PayPal. Your username and password are sent to you automatically upon verification of your credit card transaction. If you prefer paying by check/money order, your account will be activated upon receipt of payment.

I signed up for one of the subscription plans, how do I login?

Go to tools.hostguardian.com to access the login screen. Your username and password were emailed to the email address associated with your PayPal account. If you paid with a check/money order, contact support if you do not already have your username and password.

What browsers do you support?

HostGuardian's website and tool set were optimized for Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5 and above. Netscape 6.2 and above will work, but will not be as graphically appealing.

How do I cancel my subcription?

Click on the Cancel Service link on the "Account Access" menu.