What is the purpose of establishing a baseline in system performance?

Establishing a baseline in system performance serves the crucial purpose of determining how a system is expected to perform under normal conditions. This baseline establishes a reference point that can be used to gauge the actual performance of the system in ongoing operations. By understanding what is considered "normal," organizations can identify deviations that may indicate potential issues, whether they be drops in performance, system failures, or any other anomalies that require attention.

This baseline enables system administrators and IT professionals to monitor trends over time, assess the impact of changes or upgrades, and optimize system performance. In essence, it acts as a foundation for performance analysis, troubleshooting, and capacity planning, ensuring that the system remains efficient and effective in meeting its operational goals.