What does hot swapping mean? Our guide explains it

Hot swapping is popular because it's convenient - and sometimes even necessary. Our guide explains the process the technology term describes, the benefits it offers, and where it's used.

Uninterrupted switching: hot swapping stands for smooth transitions.

Some systems don't tolerate interruptions very well. In other situations, hot swapping is simply convenient.

How hot swapping works

Hot swapping is quickly explained:

• Hot swapping refers to the exchange of technology devices or individual components during ongoing operation without interrupting it.
• This method exists in many application areas. A well-known example is the replacement of the battery in wireless headsets: in this way, the audio connection does not have to be paused while a new battery is inserted.
• Hot swapping is also a common and popular solution in storage systems.
• Analogously, there is hot plugging: This refers to connecting an additional device to a system without requiring a reboot.

Both in the professional environment (such as servers) and in private use, hot swapping is very popular, but the products that are capable of this are usually in the rather high-priced range.