> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.platform9.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.platform9.com/managed-openstack/volumes-and-snapshots/storage-volumes.md).

# What is a Volume

A PMO volume is a logical storage volume allocated on a centralized persistent block storage device. A volume represents a logical area on that storage device.

Any data that is stored on a volume is persisted until it is erased from the volume.

A volume must be mounted on a virtual machine instance for it to be accessible within the guest operating system of that VM.

A volume can be created from a volume snapshot, another volume, an image, or as an empty / blank volume.

Volumes can be bootable or non-bootable. A bootable volume can be used to boot a VM from the persistent data store.

Volumes can be attached to instances for persistent block storage. Unless otherwise specified, the data on the volume persists even after the instance is destroyed.


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.platform9.com/managed-openstack/volumes-and-snapshots/storage-volumes.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.