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Reminder: Virtuozzo 7/OpenVZ Platform Shutdown Set for January 1, 2027
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Reminder: Virtuozzo 7 / OpenVZ Platform Shutdown Set for January 1, 2027
OpenVZ (later updated to Virtuozzo 7) was our original virtualization platform here at InterServer and served our customers well for many years. Over three years ago, we stopped accepting new Virtuozzo 7 orders and shifted all new VPS deployments to KVM virtualization.
In our initial Virtuozzo 7 End of Life announcement, we shared our plan to phase out the platform by June 2026 due to aging software, hardware refresh needs, and a quiet upstream development cycle with no clear upgrade path to Virtuozzo 8 or 9. With Virtuozzo’s own product lifecycle policy ending OS support in December 2027, however are now locking in the final shutdown date for all remaining systems on January 1, 2027 due to the platform age.
Current Status of Virtuozzo 7 Systems
Right now, our Virtuozzo 7 host nodes are still receiving security patches and rebootless kernel updates to keep your containers running safely without downtime. However, all internal development on our Virtuozzo 7 line has ended except for critical hypervisor security fixes.
Because the host OS relies on the very old Linux 3.x kernel release, the platform itself has reached the end of the road. In addition, many individual containers on these nodes are running guest operating systems that are also at or near the end of their lifespan—such as cPanel servers on CentOS 7 that have been relying on temporary CloudLinux extended support.
Why Move to KVM (Or Another Hosting Option)?
While Virtuozzo 7 uses container-based virtualization that shares an aging 3.x kernel across every user on the node, KVM is full virtualization. Moving to KVM gives you an experience much closer to a bare-metal dedicated server, at the exact same cost as your current VPS.
Upgrading to a KVM VPS includes:
- A Fresh Operating System & Dedicated Kernel: Start clean on a modern, supported OS like AlmaLinux, Ubuntu, or Debian, or install your own custom OS directly from an ISO.
- Better Management Tools: Take advantage of file system snapshots and improved out-of-band VNC access for troubleshooting.
- Flexible Alternatives: If a VPS is no longer the right fit for your project, you can also use this opportunity to move to a standard web hosting plan or a full dedicated server.
How We Are Helping You Migrate (2 Months Free Overlap)
Because most remaining Virtuozzo 7 containers are running outdated operating systems, a fresh OS install on a new server is the cleanest and safest way forward. We want this transition to be as smooth as possible, and you shouldn’t have to rush or pay for two servers at once while you move your data.
To help you make the switch, we will set up a new KVM VPS with matching specs at no charge for up to 2 months.
Our support staff will work with you to go over your migration options, help determine the best way to move your websites or applications, and check if it is possible to keep your existing IP address depending on your current setup.
Next Steps Before January 1, 2027
If you still have an active Virtuozzo 7 / OpenVZ system in your account, please contact our support team as soon as possible so we can get your migration started well ahead of the January 1, 2027 cutoff.
- Open a Support Ticket: Log in to your My InterServer portal and let our team know which Virtuozzo 7 VPS you need to migrate.
- Review Your Options: Our staff will set up your free 2-month matching KVM VPS (or help you switch to a web hosting plan or dedicated server) and let you know if your IP address can be retained.
- Move and Test Your Data: Transfer your files, databases, and configurations over to the fresh OS, verify everything works, and let us know when you are ready to shut down the old container.
Have questions or not sure where to start? Reach out to our support team 24/7—we are ready to help you get moved over smoothly.
