Rebooting is sometimes required — after a kernel update, to apply certain configuration changes, or to recover from a stuck process. Done correctly, it takes seconds and causes minimal disruption.
Before You Reboot
- Check if a reboot is actually required:
test -f /var/run/reboot-required && echo "Reboot needed" - Warn any logged-in users, if applicable:
who - Make sure any critical services (databases, web apps) will restart automatically on boot
Step 1 — Check Enabled Services Will Auto-Start
sudo systemctl is-enabled nginx mysql
If a service shows disabled, enable it so it comes back after reboot:
sudo systemctl enable nginx
Step 2 — Reboot Immediately
sudo reboot
Step 3 — Schedule a Delayed Reboot (Optional)
To reboot after a delay, giving time to warn users or finish tasks:
sudo shutdown -r +5
This reboots in 5 minutes. Cancel a scheduled reboot with:
sudo shutdown -c
Step 4 — Reconnect and Verify
Wait 30–60 seconds, then reconnect:
ssh deploy@YOUR_SERVER_IP
Check system uptime to confirm the reboot happened:
uptime
Step 5 — Verify Services Came Back Up
sudo systemctl --failed
This lists any service that failed to start. Investigate and restart individually if needed:
sudo systemctl restart SERVICE_NAME
What If the VPS Doesn't Come Back Online?
- Wait a few minutes — some reboots take longer if filesystem checks run
- Use your hosting provider's web-based console/VNC to see boot output directly
- Check for filesystem errors reported during boot
- If the issue persists, contact your provider's support with console output
Common Errors
SSH connection refused after reboot — the server may still be booting; wait another minute before assuming a problem.
A service didn't restart — it likely wasn't enabled to start on boot; fix with systemctl enable SERVICE_NAME.
Best Practices
- Schedule reboots during low-traffic maintenance windows
- Always verify
systemctl --failedafter every reboot - Keep a recent backup before rebooting after major system changes
FAQ
How long does a typical VPS reboot take?
Usually 15–60 seconds, though it can take longer if disk checks or a kernel update are involved.
Related Articles
- How to Update and Upgrade Your Ubuntu or Debian VPS
- How to Check VPS Resource Usage (CPU, RAM & Disk)
- How to Manage Services with systemd and systemctl
