Volumes
Add block storage to an instance and keep the data when the instance changes.
Use a volume for application data, uploads, or anything that should survive when an instance is rebuilt or replaced. Volumes can be moved between instances.
Create a volume
- Open Storage → Volumes and choose Create volume.
- Enter a name and choose a size between 8 GB and 256 GB.
- Check the estimated monthly price, then choose Create volume.
The volume becomes Available when it is ready to attach.
Attach a volume
Select available volumes while creating an instance and they are attached before it starts. To attach a volume to an existing instance, stop the instance first. From Storage → Volumes, open Manage on an available volume, choose the instance, and choose Assign. You can also attach a volume from the instance's Disks tab while the instance is stopped.
A volume attaches to one instance at a time.
Detach a volume
Stop the instance, then choose Unassign on the volume or Detach on the instance's Disks tab. The data stays on the volume, and it becomes available for another instance or for deletion.
Delete a volume
An attached volume cannot be deleted. Detach it first, then choose Delete volume and confirm. Deleting a volume removes its data permanently and cannot be undone.
The boot disk is included with the instance and removed with it. A data volume stays available and billed when its instance is deleted.
Billing
Volumes are billed at the current per-GB monthly rate while they exist, whether they are attached or not. The create page shows the current rate and an estimate for the size you choose. Deleting a volume stops its charge; detaching it does not.
Statuses
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Creating | The volume is being prepared. |
| Available | The volume is ready to attach to a stopped instance. |
| Attaching | The volume is being added to an instance. |
| Attached | The volume is in use by an instance. |
| Deleting | The volume is being removed. |
| Error | The last action did not finish. The volume page shows the reason. |
Limits
The number of volumes and the total volume storage are shown under Settings → Limits → Compute limits. Choose Manage limit, enter the limits you need and a short reason, then submit the request. An approved request replaces the current limits for your account.
For a server that uses volumes, see Instances.