The Volume Snapshot Service and Volume Shadow Copy Service are features of Windows for backing up and restoring volumes. VSS can create incremental backups of a volume and is a stand-alone component of the operating system. A program called diskshadow was introduced in Windows Server 2008 to enable scripting of VSS activities. Third-party backup software and backup appliances can trigger VSS, and it is accessible in Windows client versions starting with Windows XP.
FAQ: Volume Snapshot Service and Volume Shadow Copy Service
WHAT is Volume Snapshot Service and Volume Shadow Copy Service?
Volume Snapshot Service (VSS) and Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSC) are backup and restore features in Windows that copy volumes, including hard disks. VSS was first introduced in Windows Server 2003, and VSC was added in Windows Server 2008.
WHAT is the purpose of VSS and VSC?
VSS and VSC allow users to create incremental backups of a volume, meaning that only changes made since the last backup are backed up. This reduces the time and storage needed for backups and allows for more frequent backups.
Is VSS a stand-alone component of the OS?
Yes, VSS is a stand-alone component of the OS. A diskshadow program was included in Windows Server 2008 to enable scripting of VSS activities.
Can VSS be triggered by third-party backup software and backup appliances?
Yes, VSS can be triggered by third-party backup software and backup appliances. This means that users have various options for implementing VSS in their backup and restore processes.
Is VSS accessible in Windows client versions?
Yes, VSS is accessible in Windows client versions beginning with Windows XP. This allows users of Windows desktops and laptops to utilize the benefits of VSS for their backup and restore needs.
