How to Reset a VPS Server for a Fresh Start? Comprehensive Guide

Overview and Importance of Resetting a VPS

Virtual Private Server Hosting (VPS) is a suitable hosting plan for many individuals and businesses. It offers the flexibility of a dedicated server at a lower rate of shared hosting. Each user is allocated a subset of resources and provided with control over his or her environment. 

This flexibility is suitable for businesses and developers. However, a VPS may need a reset at times. This can fix issues, improve performance, or restore functionality. A VPS needs a reset to resolve problems like software conflicts, slowdowns, and config errors. 

Thus, it is essential to understand How To Reset Your VPS Server. Resetting the VPS assures that the server performs smoothly and properly. Users should know how to manage their VPS, whether it is a soft or hard reset. You can learn to do both of these through this Guide on our Blog.

What is Meant by Resetting the VPS: Concept and Purpose

A VPS reset means closing all active applications and processes that are being hosted by the server and effectively rebooting it. It is all about restoring a VPS to its operational state, similar to how one would restart a personal computer or smartphone.

A VPS reset aims to fix issues like slow performance, software conflicts, or unresponsiveness, allowing the server to return to a stable and functional state.

Resetting a server is a common task among administrators in the field of VPS management. It helps them enhance server performance while ensuring all apps function effectively.

You can easily do this with control panels, command lines, or by creating a ticket to host support. To manage the servers effectively in the long run, Managed VPS Administrators must know the consequences and process of resetting a VPS. 

Types of VPS Resets: Primary Types of Resets

When managing a VPS, it’s crucial to understand the different types of resets. The two primary types of resets are:

1. Soft Reset: Proper Way to Restart a VPS

A soft reboot is a restart of a Virtual Private Server (VPS). It mainly uses the operating system’s built-in mechanisms. It is a controlled method of restarting. This helps to understand how to restart a VPS without losing data. This process shuts down all applications and services on the machine. Then, it reboots the whole server.

Key Features of a Soft Reset:

• Graceful Shutdown: All running processes can close properly. This lets them save their state and data.
• Minimized Data Loss: Closing applications properly dramatically reduces the risk of data loss or corruption.
• Use Cases: Soft resets are for routine maintenance, updates, or fixing minor issues. These don’t need a complete power cycle of the server.

A soft reset is best for most server tasks. It boosts stability and reliability in the VPS environment.

2. Hard Reset: Abrupt Method to Restart a VPS

On the contrary, a hard reset is a more abrupt method of restarting a VPS. It forcibly stops and deletes all running processes. Then, it reboots the server without letting applications close.

Key Features of a Hard Reset:

• Immediate Action: A hard reset is done if the server hangs or fails critically.
• Potential Risks: Abruptly terminating all processes raises the risk of data loss or corruption. This is especially true if applications are writing data or performing critical tasks.
• Use Cases: Hard resets are a last resort. They are used when other methods have failed or when the server is frozen and unresponsive.

Hard resets can help regain control of a faulty VPS. However, they may harm data and app stability, so use them cautiously.

Methods to Reset a VPS Server: Step-By-Step Guide

There are various ways to reset a Virtual Private Server (VPS). The method depends on the control panel used or the user’s command-line skills. Here are the primary methods to reset a VPS server:

• Using Control Panels
• Using Command Line Interface (CLI)
• Using Windows Server Options
• Using Client Portal or Hosting Support

1. Using Control Panels: In-Built Restart Options in Control Panels

When Managing Virtual Private Servers (VPS), several control panels stand out for their features and ease of use. Here’s an overview of some popular options:

• cPanel: cPanel is widely recognized for its user-friendly interface. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
• WHM: Web Host Manager (WHM) is intended for server administrators and resellers. It allows the management of multiple cPanel accounts and provides admin control over server settings, user accounts, and resources.
• Plesk: Plesk is versatile and scalable. It runs many apps on a single VPS.

General Steps to Reset a VPS Server Using Control Panel

To reset a VPS server using the control panel, follow these steps. They may vary slightly based on your hosting provider’s interface:

• Log into the Control Panel: Use your credentials to access your VPS’s control panel. This is typically found on the provider’s website.
• Locate Your VPS: Go to My VPSs or similar. There, you’ll find a list of your virtual servers.
• Access Server Management: Click on the Manage button next to the desired VPS to go to the Server Management page.
• Perform the Reset: In the Server Control section, you will see options for various actions. Look for the option labeled Reset VPS.
• Reset VPS: This action immediately turns off and restarts your VPS without saving any data. It is useful for troubleshooting but can lead to data loss if unsaved changes exist.

Step-by-Step Guide for Resetting Through WHM

To reset a VPS using WHM, follow these steps:

• Logging in as Root Admin:
  • You can access your WHM interface by entering the server’s IP address followed by /whm in your web browser (e.g., http://your-server-ip/whm).
  • Enter your root username and password to log in.
• Navigating to the System Reboot Section:
  • Once logged in, locate the left sidebar menu.
  • Click “System Reboot,” usually in “System” or “Server Configuration.”
• Choosing Between Graceful and Forceful Reboot Options:
  • You will see options for rebooting:
  • Graceful Reboot: This option lets the server shut down services before restarting. It minimizes data loss.
  • Forceful Reboot: This option restarts the server without shutting down services. It may cause data loss or corruption.
• Confirming the Reboot Process:
  • After selecting a reboot option, confirm by clicking the button (e.g., “Reboot” or “Confirm”).
  • Wait for the system to complete the reboot process; this may take a few moments.

2. Using Command Line Interface (CLI): Using SSH To Restart The VPS

To reset a VPS server using the Command Line Interface (CLI), one can employ SSH (Secure Shell). This approach is convenient for advanced users, who can use command-line functions instead of a graphical interface.

SSH (Secure Shell) access is vital for VPS managers. It allows secure, remote connections to the server. This lets users log onto the server, run commands, transfer files, and perform other admin tasks without a GUI. 

With such access, users can quickly fix problems, set up services, and reset the server using the command line interface.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reset via SSH

To reset your VPS using SSH, follow these steps:

• Log into Your VPS:
  • Open your terminal or an SSH client like PuTTY.
  • Connect to your VPS by entering the command:
    • ssh root@your-server-ip
    • Replace your-server-ip with the actual IP address of your VPS.
  • Enter your root password when prompted.
• Enter the Reboot Command:
  • Once logged in, you can use one of the following commands to restart your VPS.
    • For an immediate reboot: reboot
  • Alternatively, you can use the “shutdown” command for a more graceful approach:
• Optional: Delayed Restart:
  • If you want to delay the restart, you can specify a time in seconds.
    • For example, to delay by 60 seconds:
      • shutdown -r +1
      • This will schedule a reboot for one minute from the current time.
• Force Close Running Applications:
  • If you need to forcefully close running applications before rebooting, use:
    • shutdown -r -f now
    • This command will terminate all running processes and then restart the server.
• Confirming the Reboot:
  • After executing any of these commands, you will see a message stating that the system is going down for a reboot.
  • During the reboot process, you will be disconnected from the server. Wait for a few moments before attempting to reconnect.

3. Windows Server Options: Options Available On Operating System

Use different methods to reset by Windows Server Through Admin Access. It depends on your access and preferences. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to reset a Windows Server VPS.

Using the Windows Start Menu

This is the most straightforward method for users who prefer a graphical interface.

• Log in to your Windows Server.
• Click on the Start button located at the bottom left of the screen.
• Select the Power button, then choose Restart from the options presented.

Using Hyonix Portal: Management Portal

If your VPS provider has a management portal, you can restart your server from there.

• Log in to the Hyonix Portal using your registered email and password.
• Navigate to the server settings by clicking on Manage.
• Click on Power Options, then select Restart to reboot your Windows VPS.

Using Command Prompt (cmd)

This method is efficient and easy for users to use when they are comfortable with command-line operations.

• Log in to your Windows Server.
• Search for cmd in the Windows search bar. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• Enter the following command and hit Enter: shutdown -r

Using PowerShell

PowerShell provides another command-line option for restarting your server.

• Log in to your Windows Server.
• Search for PowerShell, right-click on Windows PowerShell, and select Run as administrator.
• Type the following command and press Enter: Restart-Computer

Remote Desktop Services (RDP)

To restart only the Remote Desktop Services without rebooting the server, use Task Manager or Services.

• Using Task Manager:
  • Open Task Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting it from the menu.
  • Go to the Services tab.
  • Find TermService, right-click it, and choose Restart.
• Using Services.msc:
  • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  • Type services.msc and press Enter.
  • Locate Remote Desktop Services, right-click it, and choose Restart.

4. Client Portal or Hosting Support: Getting Help In Restarting The VPS

When requesting a VPS reboot from support or by ticket, include some relevant details about your problem. Try to provide relevant data like your server ID and IP address and what errors you may have faced. This may help the staff quickly identify and address potential issues.

Once you have made your request, do not be surprised if the support staff has some questions. Providing all relevant information at the first contact will save time and speed up the resolution.

Step-by-Step Guide To Get Client Support

To reset a VPS server, use the client portal or contact support. Follow these guidelines:

• Log into the Customer Portal: Use your credentials to access your hosting provider’s portal.
• Navigate to Your Services: 
  • Look for a section labeled My Services or Hosting in the menu.
  • Locate your VPS or dedicated server from the list of services.
• Manage Your VPS: 
  • Click on the Manage button next to your VPS service.
  • This will take you to a management interface. You can control your server’s settings there.
• Initiate the Reboot: 
  • Look for an option called Reboot Server, Restart, or similar in the management interface.
  • Click this option and confirm any prompts that appear to initiate the reboot process.
• Confirmation:
  • After requesting the reboot, you should receive a confirmation message indicating that the server is restarting.
  • Monitor the status until it indicates that the server is back online.

Precautions Before Resetting a VPS Server: Important Steps to Take

Taking these precautions can reduce risks. They will help your VPS server reset more smoothly.

• Always create a backup of your data before performing a reset to prevent data loss.
• Backups let you restore your system if there are issues after a reboot.
• Regular backups are essential for maintaining data integrity and security.
• Identify and notify users of any running apps that may be affected by the reboot.
• Ensure that critical services are stopped gracefully to prevent data corruption.
• Schedule the reboot for off-peak hours to reduce user impact.
• Check for any tasks that must be finished before the reset.

General Troubleshooting Tips: Common Solutions for VPS Issues

After resetting a VPS server, problems may arise. These could affect your apps and services. Therefore, always be careful and follow the tips.

• Check Logs: Always review system logs or any error messages from the server reboots. 
• Graceful vs. Forceful Reboot: If you rebooted the machine with force, some services may not have been properly shut down or may not have stopped. Always try to perform a reboot that allows services to shut down correctly. Only do a forceful reboot when critically needed.
• Backup Restoration: If critical issues arise, restore from a recent backup, if available.
• Contact Support: If post-reset issues persist, contact your host’s support. Provide details about the problems.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Resetting Your VPS

An essential but effective tool for managing a VPS is the ability to reset it. Knowing how and when to reset a VPS will let you fix any performance flaws or software conflicts. Resetting the VPS server ensures that it works optimally.

Knowing the difference between soft and hard resets can help users. They will know when to perform the required action.

However, we must take protective measures. We should back up data and properly turn off necessary services. Backups avoid data loss and reduce downtime. By following the proper steps and guidelines, users can enjoy hassle-free operations. This will prevent future problems and ensure their VPS’s welfare.

Looking for a reliable and supportive hosting provider? Give ARZ Host a visit!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a VPS reset? 

Resetting a VPS is restarting a virtual private server. This restores its functionality, fixes issues, and boosts performance for a better experience. It involves powering the server on and off. This can be done via control panels, command lines, or by seeking hosting support.

What is the difference between a soft reset and a hard reset?

For data centers and network administrators, a soft VPS reset is the preferred option. Soft Resets are a type of graceful restart. They let all active processes close correctly, minimizing data loss. This is mainly used for routine maintenance or troubleshooting minor issues.

A hard reset, on the other hand, restores the VPS by shutting down all virtual processes. This may cause data loss. Hard resetting is done when the server is unresponsive or facing critical issues.

When should I perform a soft reset on my VPS?

A soft reset is perfect for routine maintenance, updates, or handling minor issues. It ensures services stop correctly, reducing data loss or corruption. 

Can I reset my VPS using the command line?

Yes, you can reset your VPS through the command line using SSH for remote access. Use commands like “reboot” or “shutdown -r +1” to restart the server. Depending on the situation, it can be done either gracefully or forcefully. 

Is it safe to reset my VPS during business hours?

Avoid scheduling VPS resets during busy hours. This limits inconvenience to users and services. If the server has issues and can’t respond, it needs a reset despite the hours.

What should I do before resetting my VPS?

Before resetting the VPS:

1. Back it up. This will prevent data loss.
2. Notify users of possible downtime.
3. Securely shut down vital resources. If needed, complete any tasks to allow the reset.

What should I do if my VPS doesn’t come back online after a reset?

After a reboot, web servers (Apache, Nginx), databases (MySQL, MariaDB), and app servers may not start.

• Troubleshooting Steps:
  • Access your server via SSH and check the status of services using commands like:
    • systemctl status nginx
    • systemctl status mysql
  • Restart any services that are not running:
    • systemctl restart nginx
    • systemctl restart mysql

Websites hosted on the VPS may become unreachable after a reboot.

• Troubleshooting Steps:
  • Verify that the web server is running.
  • Check the firewall settings. Allow traffic on necessary ports, like port 80 for HTTP and port 443 for HTTPS.
  • Review error logs for any indications of issues (e.g., /var/log/nginx/error.log or /var/log/httpd/error_log)

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