> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.dcdeploy.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Ephemeral & Persistent Storage

> Understand the difference between ephemeral and persistent storage in DCDeploy and how to use each for your services effectively.

## Overview

DCDeploy supports both **ephemeral** and **persistent storage**. Choosing the right type depends on whether your service data needs to survive container restarts or deployments.

* **Ephemeral Storage:** Temporary storage tied to the container lifecycle.
* **Persistent Storage:** Durable storage that survives container restarts and redeployments.

***

## Ephemeral Storage

* Created automatically with a container.
* Data is lost when the container stops, restarts, or is deleted.
* Best for:
  * Temporary caches
  * Session storage
  * Scratch data during builds or computation

#### Notes:

* Use for stateless services or data that can be regenerated.
* No additional configuration needed.

## Persistent Storage

* Separate storage volume that survives container restarts or redeploys.
* Ideal for databases, uploaded files, or any critical data.

## Dashboard:

1. Navigate to the service → Volumes → Add Persistent Volume
2. Mount the volume to the desired path in the container.
3. Start the service; data persists across restarts and deployments.

#### Notes:

* Ensure volumes are backed up regularly.
* Multiple services can share volumes if configured correctly.
* Volumes can be migrated to other environments if needed.

### Comparison Table

| Feature         | Ephemeral Storage            | Persistent Storage                       |
| --------------- | ---------------------------- | ---------------------------------------- |
| Lifecycle       | Container only               | Survives restarts & redeploys            |
| Use Case        | Caches, temp files, sessions | Databases, uploaded files, critical data |
| Backup Required | No                           | Yes                                      |
| Configuration   | Automatic                    | Requires volume setup                    |

### Best Practices

* Use ephemeral storage for stateless services and temporary data.
* Use persistent storage for databases, user files, and critical data.
* Regularly backup persistent volumes.
* Avoid storing critical data on ephemeral storage.