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Why you should snapshot a server before changing it

Updated 26 October 2026

A snapshot saves the whole disk of a server as it is now. If an update or a change goes wrong, you can go back to it. It takes a minute to make and can save an afternoon.

When to take one

  • Before updating the system or big packages
  • Before changing a configuration you cannot easily undo
  • Before moving or migrating a database
  • Before trying something new on a server that matters

Take a snapshot

Open the server and go to the Snapshots tab. Give it a name such as before-update, then press Take snapshot. When it shows as ready, you can carry on with your change.

Restore one

Press Restore next to the snapshot. Restoring replaces the current disk, so you are asked to type the server's name to confirm.

Nightly backups

For a server you cannot afford to lose, switch on nightly backups on the same tab. It keeps the last seven.

What it costs

Snapshots are charged by the gigabyte. The Snapshots tab shows what yours come to each month.

Questions

Is a snapshot the same as a backup?

A snapshot is a copy of the whole disk kept with the server. It is the quickest way to go back, and nightly backups use it to keep a rolling set.

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