> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.shardcloud.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# VPS Services

> ShardCloud provides fully managed Virtual Private Servers with SSH access, automated backups, and real-time monitoring.

## Supported Linux Distributions

Choose from our pre-configured Linux distributions optimized for performance and security.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Ubuntu" icon="ubuntu">
    Latest LTS releases
  </Card>

  <Card title="Debian" icon="debian">
    Stable and testing
  </Card>

  <Card title="AlmaLinux" icon="linux">
    RHEL-compatible
  </Card>

  <Card title="Rocky Linux" icon="linux">
    Enterprise-grade Linux
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

### Distribution Details

* **Ubuntu**: Popular choice for web applications and development
* **Debian**: Rock-solid stability for production environments
* **AlmaLinux**: Community-driven RHEL alternative
* **Rocky Linux**: Enterprise-level support and long-term stability

## SSH Access

<Warning>
  All VPS instances are accessible via SSH only for maximum security.
</Warning>

### Secure Connection

* **Dedicated IP**: Each VPS receives a unique dedicated IP address
* **Root access**: Full control over your server
* **Password authentication**: Secure password provided at creation
* **Custom port support**: Change SSH port as needed

### Connection Process

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create VPS">
    Receive root credentials upon creation
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect">
    Use SSH client with provided credentials
  </Step>

  <Step title="Secure">
    Change your root password after first login
  </Step>
</Steps>

```bash theme={null}
# Example SSH connection
ssh root@your-vps-ip
```

## Real-Time Metrics

Monitor your VPS performance with live metrics displayed in your dashboard:

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Network Usage" icon="network-wired">
    RX/TX and total traffic
  </Card>

  <Card title="Resource Usage" icon="server">
    RAM and vCPU utilization
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

**Available Metrics:**

* vCPU usage
* RAM usage
* Network RX (received)
* Network TX (transmitted)
* Total network RX
* Total network TX

## Backups

<Tip>
  Create and restore full system backups with one click.
</Tip>

### Backup Features

* **One-click creation**: Instant full system backup
* **2 free backups per VPS**: Automatic rotation of oldest backups
* **Easy restoration**: One-click restore process
* **Secure storage**: Encrypted backup storage
* **Zero downtime**: Create backups without stopping your VPS

### Backup Process

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create">
    Click backup button in dashboard
  </Step>

  <Step title="Store">
    Full system image saved automatically
  </Step>

  <Step title="Restore">
    Select backup and click restore
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Warning>
  Restoring a backup will replace all current data on your VPS. Ensure you have recent backups before making major changes.
</Warning>

## Security

### Built-in Security Features

* **SSH-only access**: No web-based access panels
* **Dedicated IP**: Isolated network access
* **Password protection**: Secure root password provided

### Best Practices

* Change your root password after first login
* Keep your password secure
* Regularly update your system packages
* Create regular backups before system changes

## Getting Started

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create VPS">
    Choose distribution, resources, and configuration
  </Step>

  <Step title="Receive Credentials">
    Get your root password
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect">
    SSH into your new VPS
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure">
    Set up your applications and services
  </Step>

  <Step title="Setup Backups">
    Create your first backup
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Resource Plans

Choose the right resources for your workload:

* **vCPU**: 1-12 cores
* **RAM**: 4GB-32GB
* **Storage**: 20GB-500GB SSD

## Support

Need help with your VPS? We're here to assist:

* 24/7 technical support
* Comprehensive documentation
* Community forums
* Migration assistance