System and method for managing computing devices

A data center, comprising:

• a first computer having a processor and a memory;
• and
• a plurality of second computers in communication with the first computer via one or more networks, at least one second computer of the plurality of second computers disposed on a hash board;
• wherein the first computer:
• periodically reads and stores status information from the plurality of second computers;
• and
• provides a user interface including:
• a first control to select one or more of the plurality of second computers;
• and
• a second control to select one of a plurality of different operating modes, including a manual mode, a semi-automated mode, an automated mode, and an intelligent mode;
• and
• in response to a requested change, the requested change including a selection of one of the plurality of operating modes with the second control for one or more of the plurality of second computers selected with the first control, simulates the effects of the requested change, and based on the results of the simulation, applies selected settings to the selected one or more second computers;
• wherein dynamic settings that are dependent on a proper configuration of another dynamic setting are automatically enforced in the intelligent mode;
• wherein, in response to detecting that one or more user selected settings exceed a predetermined safe range, generating a warning in the manual mode;
• wherein the simulating includes modeling the requested change for the selected one or more of the plurality of second computers and providing simulated results that indicate at least one of expected device damage or estimated reduction in remaining device lifespan.