The problem was that the server temporary memory ran out probably due to too many processes, which caused a "kernel panic" which then hung the server. DH describes it as the server "going into fetal position".
Trying to get just the right amount of server size to meet the needs of an ever growing forum seems to be a balancing act. We want the right size to accommodate current needs with just enough to grow into but not have one so huge that we're paying for RAM we won't need for another two years. The bigger the forum gets, the more money it costs to keep it functioning.
There will be a scheduled upgrade of the server RAM sometime in the week which will necessitate taking down the server temporary for a short period of time. I'll post an announcement as to when that will occur so people can be prepared.
