System Startup and Shutdown

In years past, OpenVMS computers were almost always large machines isolated in air-conditioned computer rooms with dedicated staff. Dedicated system managers and operators handled system management functions like startup and shutdown. While this is still true of many OpenVMS systems, there are a considerable number of smaller OpenVMS machines owned by individuals, often located in their own homes. This section provides those individuals with a brief explanation of how to start up and shut down their personal OpenVMS computers properly.

If the OpenVMS system you are using is not your own personal system, do not issue any of the commands described in this section. Your system manager will not take kindly to unauthorized experimentation in these areas.