Can a VPS hacker bring down an entire server?

Question: Can a VPS hacker bring down an entire server?

Answer: A virtual private server (VPS) works by sectioning off a full server or node (in the case of hardware virtualization) from the larger server or cluster. As such, the VPS functions like a fully independent server even though it is actually using the operating system of the larger entity. Therefore, the short answer is: no.

Even if a user or hacker manages to gain root access on a VPS, if it is configured correctly, that is as far as he can get. To him the fact that he is on a VPS will not even be technically apparent. There will be no way for him to even see the larger server or other virtual servers on the system. Therefore it is technically impossible for one VPS to affect the entire server or other virtual servers.

This reality makes VPS systems much more secure than traditional virtual hosting, where all users operating within the same server environment and operating system. Nevertheless, while the smaller entity cannot affect the larger one, the opposite can occur. If something is wrong with the main server, every VPS running on it will be affected. This is the downside to virtualization in general, but most would argue that the benefits still outweigh the risks.

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