Virtualization Snapshots
Virtualization snapshots are a feature in virtualization platforms that capture the state, data, and configuration of a virtual machine (VM) at a specific point in time. They allow users to save the VM's current condition, including memory, disk, and settings, enabling quick rollback to that state if needed. This is commonly used for testing, backup, and recovery purposes in virtualized environments.
Developers should learn and use virtualization snapshots when working with VMs for software testing, development, or deployment, as they provide a safety net to revert to a known good state after failed updates or experiments. They are essential in DevOps and IT operations for creating restore points before applying patches, testing new configurations, or debugging issues without risking production stability. Use cases include rapid prototyping, disaster recovery planning, and maintaining consistent development environments across teams.