What Is Rescue Mode?

Rescue mode boots your VM into a temporary system image that runs independently from your main disk. This allows you to:

  • Mount your system disk manually
  • Fix bootloader or kernel issues
  • Recover or back up important files
  • Inspect logs or configurations that caused system failure

In simple terms: it’s like booting your computer from a USB stick to repair the main hard drive.

When to Use Rescue Mode

Use rescue mode when your VM:

  • Fails to boot
  • Has broken packages or dependencies
  • Has lost SSH access due to misconfigured firewall or network settings
  • Needs file recovery or system-level inspection

Screenshot of Doprax' rescue mode feature

How to Enter Rescue Mode

  • Log in to your Doprax Panel.
  • Go to Virtual Machines and select your VM.
  • Scroll down and pick "Access" option.
  • Scroll down and click on the "Rescue Mode" option.
  • Confirm your choice in the next dialogue window.
  • Your VM is now in rescue mode!

Doprax Rescue Mode

How to Access Your VM in Rescue Mode

Use the credentials displayed in the console to log in via password or SSH key.

SSH Method:

  1. Open your terminal: Launch Terminal using Ctrl+Alt+T for (macOS/Linux) or cmd for (Windows)
  2. Ensure your SSH key is loaded: The private key corresponding to the public key above must be in your SSH agent
  3. Execute the SSH command: Copy and paste the connection command above into your terminal
  4. Verify the connection: You should now have shell access to your virtual machine

Password Method:

  1. Open your terminal: Launch Terminal using Ctrl+Alt+T for (macOS/Linux) or cmd for (Windows)
  2. Wait for Prompt to login: The console screen will display the boot process.
    Wait until you see a login prompt (e.g., login:).
  3. Enter Temporary Credentials:
    1. Copy and paste the username and press Enter.
    2. Copy and paste the temporary password and press Enter. Note: The password you type will usually not be visible (no asterisks or dots) for security.
  4. Access is Granted: You are now logged into the rescue environment with root privileges. You can typically mount your original VM's disk partitions from here to perform maintenance.

Doprax Rescue Mode for VMs

How to Exit Rescue Mode

When you're finished, don't forget to exit Rescue Mode.

To exit Rescue Mode, simply click "Exit Rescue Mode" in the "Access" option.

Doprax Rescue Mode for VMs

Note: Rescue Mode is meant only for troubleshooting. Keeping it active may prevent your VM from booting normally or cause temporary network restrictions. Exiting returns your server to its standard operating environment.