Do you have ssh (command line) access to your server?

[Big Dan]

and want to know how to you use it?

Check out lowfatlinux.com (http://www.lowfatlinux.com). I found it a while back, it's gear towards the home user but server side commands are the same.

Since I got off my but and learned backups have become so much easier. I back up all of my websites with two commands.

If you're on a windows server this doesn't apply...and shame on you! :p

[Noppid]

I spend as much time in my shell as I do the vB ACP, perhaps more. In my case having to manage a server, it's just necessary. Not everyone needs to learn this.

But, if you have this access and use it as Danny has pointed out for backups for instance, you will find yourself really empowered.