Are Azure VM Snapshots Considered Backups, and How Can I Access Files Inside Them?

Question

Are Azure VM Snapshots Considered Backups, and How Can I Access Files Inside Them?

Osama AlGhamdi 0

Hello,

I have a virtual machine (VM) in Azure that takes daily snapshots. I’d like to confirm whether these snapshots are considered a form of backup.

Additionally, I want to understand where the snapshot data is stored and whether it’s possible to view or extract specific files from a snapshot — mainly for verification purposes and in case we need them in the future.

What is the recommended way to browse or access snapshot contents in Azure?

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Answer 1

Divyesh Govaerdhanan 3,885

Hello,

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A,

Azure snapshots are useful for VM protection, but they're not exactly considered Backups.

Azure snapshots are point-in-time copies of a managed disk (typically OS or data disks). While they provide data protection, they do not offer the full capabilities of a backup solution, such as File-level recovery and Long-term retention.

Use Azure Backup if you need full VM protection with retention, file recovery, and compliance options.

Snapshots are stored as managed resources in Azure, similar to disks. They reside in the same region as the source disk. They’re billed based on the used size (incremental snapshots are cost-efficient). Azure doesn’t allow direct file browsing in a snapshot, but you can access the contents by creating a disk from the snapshot and attaching it to a VM.

Please Upvote and accept the answer if it helps!!

Mohan Krishna T Sreeramulu 95 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator

2025-05-06T09:53:59.1966667+00:00

Hello Osama AlGhamdi,

Just checking in to see if the above provided answer provided by Divyesh Govaerdhanan . Was it helpful for you?
Please let us know if you need any further clarification, as we are always here to help you.

Please "Accept the answer” and "Upvote" it if the information provided has been helpful. This can benefit other community members and would be greatly appreciated.it would be greatly appreciated and helpful to others.
Mohan Krishna T Sreeramulu 95 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator

2025-05-07T03:40:31.33+00:00

Hello Osama AlGhamdi,

I'm following up on this issue if the above provided answer provided by Divyesh Govaerdhanan . Was it helpful for you? Please let us know if you need any further clarification, as we are always here to help you.

Please "Accept the answer” and "Upvote" it if the information provided has been helpful. This can benefit other community members and would be greatly appreciated.it would be greatly appreciated and helpful to others.

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Are Azure VM Snapshots Considered Backups, and How Can I Access Files Inside Them?

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