Route 66 News returned to cyberspace today after about a two-day outage. I apologize for that, but it was due to a problem that wasn’t foreseen.
The website was chewing through truckloads of bandwidth and taxing servers. In essence, we were too popular. So HostGator suspended the account until we took action to correct that.
A big chunk of the problem was the cache system was configured incorrectly. I was using W3 Total Cache, but this was a case where a plug-in is too clever by half. It was difficult and confusing to get it set up right.
Finally, HostGator advised us to scrap it and use WP Super Cache instead. HostGator’s tech adviser said Super Cache had performed better in testing. Plus it was easier to use — another bonus.
Once we got that straightened out, plus adding Minify to reduce bandwidth further, HostGator allowed us back on the air.
Guy Randall at GRandall Web Design, a longtime roadie who is a reseller for HostGator, patiently acted as a go-between with the host and me. So he deserves a big pat on the back for this.
We’re not out the woods yet, but what we’ve seen so far looks encouraging. Keep your fingers crossed.
That’s a good sign for those of us with businesses along the route if you have so many visitors you’re crashing the system! Here’s hopong 2012 is better than 2011. Happy New Year!
Since your website has returned from the big “crash” we here in Australia can now view every link and U Tube post. Previously I have been a regular to your site and have loved it but now realise what us “downunder” folks have been missing!! FANTASTIC…..keep up the great work.
Cheers
Loretta and Mick