> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://platform9.com/kb/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://platform9.com/kb/pmo/frequently-asked-questions/deleting-images-used-to-create-running-instances.md).

# Deleting Images Used to Create Running Instances

## Problem

An administrator has a need to delete an image that was used to create instances that are still running.

## Environment

* Platform9 Managed OpenStack - All Versions

## Answer

OpenStack will not prevent deletion of an image which was used to create an instance that is still in an **active** state. However, if the image is deleted, it will not be possible to migrate the instance successfully. To prepare for deleting an image for which instances still exist that were created from it, it will be necessary to create a snapshot of each instance and recreate the instance using the snapshot. This will allow migration to function as expected.


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