---
title: "Best Practices"
slug: "best-practices"
tags: ["EPC"]
updated: 2024-12-05T16:53:22Z
published: 2024-12-05T16:53:22Z
canonical: "support.nectarcorp.com/best-practices"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://support.nectarcorp.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Best Practices

## **Best Practices for Endpoint Client (EPC) Usage**

## **General Recommendations**

#### **Keep EPC Updated**

- Regularly apply updates to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.

- Follow Nectar’s update schedule to minimize downtime.

#### Use Strong Credentials

- Configure unique, strong passwords for all components, including Agents, Controllers, and databases.

- Enable TLS for secure communication between EPC components.

#### **Regular Backups**

- Schedule regular backups of the database to prevent data loss.

- Verify backups periodically to ensure their integrity.

## **Test Configuration Best Practices**

#### **Use Descriptive Names**

- Assign clear, descriptive names to Test Points and Test Plans to make them easily identifiable.

#### **Validate Test Plans**

- Before running a test, validate all parameters:

- Ensure codecs, payloads, and durations are set correctly.

- Confirm source and destination Test Points are active.

#### **Avoid Overloading Resources**

- Limit the number of concurrent tests to prevent resource exhaustion on Agents and Controllers.

- Distribute tests across multiple Agents when possible.

## **Running Tests**

#### **Test During Non-Peak Hours**

- Schedule intensive tests, like bandwidth or video testing, during non-peak network hours.

- This minimizes disruption to regular operations.

## **Monitoring and Analysis**

#### **Monitor Agent Health**

- Regularly check Agent health metrics, including CPU, memory, and bandwidth usage.

- Address any warnings or resource shortages promptly.

#### **Leverage Status Indicators**

- Use the color-coded status indicators in test results:

- Green: OK.

- Yellow: Investigate further.

- Red: Immediate action required.

#### **Analyze Trends**

- Use historical data to identify recurring issues or patterns.

- Adjust test parameters based on insights from trend analysis.

## **Security Best Practices**

#### **Enforce Domain Restrictions**

- Configure domains to restrict unauthorized Agents from connecting to Controllers.

#### **Enable TLS for All Tests**

- Ensure all test communications are encrypted using TLS, especially for sensitive applications like VoIP.

**Review Access Logs**

- Periodically review logs for signs of unauthorized access or anomalies.

## **Maintenance**

#### **Review Configuration Regularly**

- Periodically review all Test Points, Resource Groups, and Test Plans to ensure they align with current network needs.

#### **Optimize Database Performance**

- Purge old or irrelevant test data regularly to keep the database responsive.

- Ensure database indexing is optimized for EPC queries.

#### **Train Users**

- Provide regular training sessions to ensure users are familiar with EPC features and updates.

- Share resources like quick reference guides and troubleshooting tips.

Following these best practices will ensure optimal performance, security, and reliability when using EPC.