Starting Fresh with a Server Rebuild
The Rebuild feature allows you to completely wipe your virtual server and reinstall the operating system from scratch. This is useful when you want to start with a clean slate, switch to a different operating system, or recover from a severely misconfigured server that cannot be repaired.Difficulty
Intermediate
Time
5-10 Minutes
Before You Rebuild
Before initiating a rebuild, complete this essential checklist:Create a Backup
If you have any important data, configurations, or files on your server, create a backup first. Use the Backups tab to create a server backup, or manually download your important files via SFTP or SSH.
Document Your Configuration
Make note of any custom configurations, installed software, firewall rules, SSH keys, and services you will need to reinstall after the rebuild.
Disable Server Protection
If you have enabled Rebuild Protection on your server, you must disable it before the Rebuild button becomes available. Click the lock/shield icon on the Overview page to remove protection.
Performing the Rebuild
Navigate to Your Server
Click on Servers in the top navigation bar, then click Manage next to the server you want to rebuild.
Click the Rebuild Button
On the server’s Overview page, click the Rebuild button (shown in red) in the power controls area.
Select an Operating System
Choose the operating system you want to install from the available options. Options typically include various Linux distributions (Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS, AlmaLinux, etc.) and may include Windows depending on your plan.
Choose SSH Keys (Optional)
If you have SSH keys stored in your account, you can select which keys to inject into the new installation for passwordless SSH access.
Confirm the Rebuild
Review your selections carefully. You will be asked to confirm that you understand all data will be erased. Confirm to begin the rebuild process.
After the Rebuild
Once the rebuild is complete:- Your server will be running the freshly installed operating system.
- A new root password will be generated and displayed or emailed to you.
- Any SSH keys you selected will be installed, allowing passwordless login.
- The server’s IP address remains the same — it does not change after a rebuild.
- You can connect via SSH (Linux) or RDP (Windows) to begin setting up your new server.
When to Use Rebuild
Switch Operating System
Move from one Linux distribution to another, or switch between Linux and Windows.
Clean Slate
Start completely fresh when your server has accumulated too many configuration changes or software conflicts.
Recovery
When a server is so severely misconfigured that repair is impractical, a rebuild is faster than trying to fix every issue.
Security Incident
If your server has been compromised, a complete rebuild ensures all malicious software and backdoors are removed.
Can I undo a rebuild?
Can I undo a rebuild?
No, a rebuild is permanent and irreversible. Once the process begins, all previous data is erased. The only way to recover is from a backup created before the rebuild.
Will my IP address change?
Will my IP address change?
No, your server’s IP address remains the same after a rebuild. You do not need to update DNS records or firewall rules.
Why is the Rebuild button disabled?
Why is the Rebuild button disabled?
How long does a rebuild take?
How long does a rebuild take?
A typical rebuild completes in 1 to 5 minutes. You can track the progress in the Task Log section at the bottom of the server management page.
Need Extra Help?
If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:- Live Chat: Quick assistance via our website.
- Support Ticket: Open a Ticket
- Discord: Join our Community
- Email: support@freakhosting.com
Last Updated: March 2026 | VPS Support: Server rebuilds simplified.