How are RRD files created and can we change the parameters?

[cosminro]

From my question about a specific graph I might need I found out that Nagios XI stores performance data in RRD files.

How are those RRD files created?
Can I alter the parameters used to create the files?
Is it a problem if I recreate those files to change the parameters?

I'm monitoring bandwidth use at the router and total power consumption in the building. I'd like to store both of those for a really long time, say 10 years: power consumption graphs are seriously interesting when you can compare them season-to-season (think: summer 2020 against summer 2019). I know this would increase the size of the RRD files but it doesn't really matter: I can give Nagios as much space as it needs.

[benjaminsmith]

Hello @cosminro,

We have a good pro tip video on this topic that I would recommend watching. The short answer: yes you can alter the parameters but it will take more space and require more resources.

Should you change RRD retention periods? [Pro Tip with Aaron]
https://youtu.be/a7skESt63Ec

Also, if you alter the templates you may lose your historical data. Highly recommend making any changes to a test server first.

[cosminro]

Thank you.
It's good the option is there and I'll use it if I have to. For now I'll try to keep things as close to the defaults as possible.

[scottwilkerson]

Thank you.
It's good the option is there and I'll use it if I have to. For now I'll try to keep things as close to the defaults as possible.

Sounds good