Usage Management

Effective from 16th September 2025

Note: Usage management as described on this page is only applicable to the AAU Availability Zone.

graph TD
    A("Server shut down") --> B("⏱️ 48 hours<br/>elapsed")
    B --> C("📉 Auto-resize<br/>to smallest CPU")
    C --> D("⏱️ 30 days<br/>elapsed")
    D --> E("🗑️ Auto-delete server<br/>(volumes kept)")
    E --> F("⏱️ 30 days<br/>elapsed")
    F --> G("🗑️ Delete unused<br/>volumes")

    %% Define classes for colors
    classDef event fill:#e6f3ff,stroke:#1d70b8,color:#0b0c0c,font-size:14px;
    classDef action fill:#fff2f2,stroke:#d4351c,color:#0b0c0c,font-size:14px;

    %% Assign classes
    class A,B,D,F event;
    class C,E,G action;

How this affects you

Server shut down: Usage management is triggered when a server is shut down. This can happen either manually or automatically during the service window.
After 48 hours: If a VM remains shut down for 48 hours, it is automatically resized to the smallest CPU size. This frees up resources for active research. You can easily resize your server again when needed.
After 30 days: If a VM stays shut down for an additional 30 days, it is automatically deleted. However, its attached volumes are retained to keep your data safe.
Unused volumes: Volumes that are not attached to any VM for 30 days are deleted.

Tips

Want to keep your server running after service windows? If your server is part of a dedicated research project, register the VM for auto-restart before the service window begins.
Want to keep your server active? Simply start it up whenever you need it.
Back up your data regularly: Strato is not a storage platform and does not maintain backups. We recommend backing up your data elsewhere.
Resize manually when needed: You can resize your server up or down based on your current needs. This helps free up resources and ensures they are available when you need them.