Tableau Server consists of multiple processes managed by TSM. When you stop Tableau Server (e.g., via tsm stop), most application processes halt, but some TSM-specific processes remain active to manage the server’s infrastructure. Let’s examine each:
TSM Processes: These include the Administration Controller, Administration Agent, and License Manager, which handle configuration, monitoring, and licensing.
Application Processes: These include VizQL Server, Backgrounder, Data Server, etc., which deliver Tableau’s core functionality and stop when the server is stopped.
When tsm stop is executed:
The Administration Controller (port 8850) continues running to manage TSM operations (e.g., restarts, status checks).
The License Manager remains active to validate licenses and ensure compliance, even when the server is offline.
Application processes like VizQL Server and Backgrounder shut down, as they’re tied to user-facing services.
Option B (License Manager): Correct. It persists to handle licensing tasks, ensuring the server can restart without license issues.
Option D (Administration Controller): Correct. It’s the core TSM process, always running to accept commands and manage the server state.
Option A (VizQL Server): Incorrect. VizQL stops, as it renders visualizations for users—an application process tied to active server operation.
Option C (Backgrounder): Incorrect. Backgrounder stops, as it processes background tasks (e.g., extract refreshes), which halt when the server is down.
Why This Matters: Understanding which processes persist helps administrators troubleshoot and manage server lifecycle events effectively.
[Reference: Tableau Server Documentation - "TSM Processes" (https://help.tableau.com/current/server/en-us/tsm_overview.htm#processes)., , ]