A VPS snapshot is a point-in-time image or backup of a Virtual Private Server (VPS). It captures the entire state of the server, including the operating system, files, installed applications, and current configurations. This allows you to quickly restore your VPS to that exact state if something goes wrong, such as a system failure, accidental deletion, or software issues.
Snapshots are particularly useful for:
- Backup: Before making major changes to your server, like updates or new installations, taking a snapshot ensures you can roll back if needed.
- Testing: You can create a snapshot before experimenting with new software or configurations, ensuring you can revert to the previous state if something doesn’t work as expected.
- Migration: Snapshots can be used to clone a VPS to another server, making it easier to migrate or scale your infrastructure.
However, it’s important to note that snapshots are different from regular backups. They are usually stored on the same physical hardware as the VPS, meaning if the hardware fails, the snapshot may be lost too. For critical data, it’s recommended to have additional off-site backups.
