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

# How to Renew Your Free Opus Host VPS Before It Expires

> Learn how to renew your free Opus Host VPS each month, what reminder emails to expect, and what happens if you miss the renewal deadline.

Free VPS allocations on Opus Host require periodic renewal to confirm the server is still actively in use. This process helps prevent idle servers from consuming resources that other users could benefit from. Renewal is completely free and only takes a few seconds — here's everything you need to know.

## How renewal works

Your free VPS is issued for a fixed renewal period — typically one month. As the end of the period approaches, Opus Host will send you an email reminder prompting you to renew. Clicking the renewal button instantly extends your VPS lease for another full period at no cost. You don't lose any data, configuration, or uptime during the renewal process.

## How to renew

<Steps>
  <Step title="Log in to the Opus Host dashboard">
    Visit the Opus Host website and sign in to your account using your username and password.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Open your VPS">
    From the dashboard, click on the VPS you want to renew to open its management page.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Click the Renew button">
    Click the **Renew** button on the VPS page. If your renewal window is approaching, you may also see a renewal reminder banner at the top of the dashboard — you can click that directly.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm renewal">
    Review the confirmation prompt and confirm. Your VPS lease is extended immediately, and the new expiry date will be reflected in the dashboard.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Renewal reminders

Opus Host sends automated email reminders to help you stay on top of renewals:

* **7 days before expiry** — an early reminder so you have plenty of time to act
* **1 day before expiry** — a final reminder before the deadline

Make sure the email address on your account is current and accurate. You can verify or update it in **Account Settings** on the dashboard.

<Tip>
  Enable email notifications in your account settings to make sure renewal reminders always reach your inbox. If you use filters or rules in your email client, whitelist the Opus Host sender address.
</Tip>

## What happens if you miss the deadline

If you don't renew before the expiry date, here's what to expect:

* **Immediately after expiry** — your VPS enters a short grace period, usually **24–48 hours**. During this time the server may still be accessible.
* **After the grace period** — your VPS is suspended and becomes inaccessible.
* **During the retention window** — your data is held for approximately **7 days** after suspension. You may be able to restore your VPS by contacting FreeHost support within this window.
* **After the retention period** — your VPS and all associated data are **permanently deleted** and cannot be recovered.

<Warning>
  Once the retention period has passed, your VPS and all its data are permanently and irreversibly deleted. Always keep backups of anything important — don't rely solely on your VPS as your only copy of critical data.
</Warning>

## Upgrading

If you find that a monthly renewal cycle is inconvenient, or if you need more resources than the free tier provides, Opus Host may offer premium plans with longer lease terms, higher resource limits, and no renewal requirements. Check the **Plans** or **Upgrade** section of the Opus Host dashboard for the latest available options.