Reinstalling puts the server back to day one: clean system, new password and the same IP. It is the fastest way out of a mess, and also how you switch from Windows to Linux or back without ordering anything new.
First: what you are about to lose
A reinstall wipes the entire disk. There is no recycle bin and no undo. Before you click anything, take what matters with you:
- Databases (a MySQL or PostgreSQL dump, not the data folder).
- Your service configuration and, if you run a game server, the server folder and its saves.
- Certificates, SSH keys and any credential that only exists in there.
If you have backups enabled, check on that panel tab that there is a recent one — but do not rely on it alone for data you cannot afford to lose.
How to do it
- Open your service in the panel and go to the Settings tab.
- Scroll down to Reinstall Server.
- Choose the operating system you want. Every template available for your location is listed there.
- Confirm. The panel warns that the data is permanently deleted: it means it.
It usually takes between 5 and 15 minutes. Windows takes longer than Linux because it runs its first-boot setup. During that time the server will show as off or rebooting on the Overview tab, which is normal.
When it finishes
You will get the new password by email. The IP does not change, so there is no DNS to update and nobody to warn. If you get there before the email does, use Settings → Request Password Reset.
Common questions
- Do I lose my IP? No. The IP is yours for as long as the service is active.
- Can I switch from Windows to Linux? Yes, just pick another template. Bear in mind that Windows licensing is tied to the product you ordered.
- Does billing restart? No. Reinstalling changes nothing about your contract or your next invoice.
- It seems stuck. If the server still has not booted after 30 minutes, open a ticket with your service number and we will look at it.