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VSS

Volume Shadow Copy Service

The Windows mechanism that allows to create consistent shots while applications continue to work.

TopicIT knowledge → About 1 min read

Simple definition

The Windows mechanism that allows to create consistent shots while applications continue to work.

Technical definition

Volume Shadow Copy Service coordinates requesters, writers and providers to briefly freeze writes and produce a consistent volume snapshot.

What is it used for ?

Allow backup software to copy open files and some Windows applications.

Practical example

Backup software may ask VSS prepare SQL Server or file system before copying.

Common issues

  • VSS Writer in error
  • 2003 default
  • Inadequate storage space in shadow

Key takeaway: This entry explains the general operation of the term. Exact settings may vary depending on software, vendors and environments.

Related resources

Relevant topic Backup A backup is an independently retained copy of data or systems that supports recovery after hardware failure, deleti... Relevant topic Snapshot A snapshot captures a virtual machine or storage volume's state at a point in time for certain rollback operations;... Relevant topic Windows Service A Windows program designed to work in the background, often without an open user session Relevant topic Backup & VSS — Cheat sheet Backup verification, VSS writers and providers, recovery objectives, backup chains and restore testing. Relevant topic 0x80042306 — VSS provider veto A VSS provider refused or blocked snapshot creation.
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