Overview
Reset Server reprovisions a VPS from scratch, replacing everything currently on it with a newly provisioned server. Customers can use it to recover from a lost SSH key or root password, or to start over with a different base OS or app image, without creating a new server or changing the existing billing setup.
Reset Server erases all data on the server!
Reprovisioning replaces the entire server, including all files, databases, and configuration, and this cannot be undone. Back up anything needed before using Reset Server. See Manually backing up website data for instructions.
What does Reset Server do?
Reset Server reprovisions a VPS, wiping the current server and replacing it with a newly provisioned one. When you reset a server:
All data and server configurations are deleted. Every file, database, and configuration currently on the server is wiped as part of reprovisioning.
The IP address stays the same. The server keeps the exact same IP address it had before the reset.
A new SSH host key is generated. Because the server is technically a fresh installation, the system creates a new identity for it.
Billing is not affected. Reset Server doesn't create a new order or change the billing setup already in place.
When should I use Reset Server?
Reset Server is intended for situations where reprovisioning is the only practical way forward, such as:
The SSH key or root password for the server has been lost and access can no longer be recovered.
Starting over with a different base OS or app image than the one the server currently runs.
Previously, either scenario required provisioning an entirely new server. Reset Server lets the customer reprovision the existing server instead, without setting up a new order.
How do I reset a VPS?
To reset a VPS:
Back up anything needed from the server.
See Manually backing up website data for instructions.
Data erased during Reset Server cannot be recovered!
Navigate to the Servers & Usage page.
To the right of the VPS listing, click the vertical three-dot menu.
Select Reset Server. A page opens that lets you choose a new OS image and SSH key.
After you make your selections, the server immediately begins to reprovision, which erases all data currently on it.
Why do I get a host key warning after resetting?
Resetting a server generates a new SSH host key, but your computer still has the old key saved from before the reset. The next time you try to connect over SSH, this mismatch triggers a REMOTE HOST IDENTIFICATION HAS CHANGED warning and blocks the connection.
To reconnect, remove the outdated key for the server's IP address. In a terminal, run:
[server]$ ssh-keygen -R your-server-ip
Replace your-server-ip with the server's IP address, then try connecting again. For alternative methods, Windows and PuTTY instructions, or further troubleshooting, see Updating host keys.
FAQs
Does my server's IP address change after a reset?
No. The VPS keeps the same IP address after a reset. Only the server's content and SSH host key change.
Will using Reset Server change my billing?
No. Reset Server reprovisions the existing server. It doesn't create a new order or change the billing setup already in place.
Can I recover data after using Reset Server?
No. Reset Server erases everything on the server as part of reprovisioning. Back up any data needed before using Reset Server.
What's the difference between Restart Server and Reset Server?
Restart Server power-cycles the server without affecting the data on it. Reset Server reprovisions the server from scratch and erases all existing data. See Restart a Managed VPS for details on restarting.
