Understanding Switchover: Definition, Purpose, and Examples

Switchover is a term used in the context of redundancy and failover systems. It refers to the process of transferring control or functionality from one system or component to another, typically in the event of a failure or outage.

In the context of computer systems, switchover can refer to the process of switching from one server or network device to another in order to maintain availability and avoid downtime. For example, if a primary server fails, a backup server may be switched over to take its place and ensure that services continue to be available.

Similarly, in the context of power systems, switchover can refer to the process of transferring power supply from one source to another, such as from a main grid to a backup generator, in order to maintain power availability and avoid disruptions.

The goal of switchover is to minimize or eliminate downtime and ensure that critical systems and services remain available, even in the event of a failure or outage. Switchover procedures are typically designed to be quick and seamless, so that users do not notice any interruption in service.