> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/parallels-desktop-developers-guide/command-line-interface-utility/manage-virtual-machines-from-cli/miscellaneous/creating-a-vm-dump.md).

# Creating a VM Dump

**prlctl debug-dump** <*vm\_id* | *vm\_name*>

\[**--name** <*dump\_file\_name*>] \[**--path** <*output\_directory\_path*>]

Creates a virtual machine dump in ELF format and saves it to a file. The resulting dump file can be opened with the Linux **crash** utility or (with some limitations) with the **GDB** debugger.

#### Optional Parameters

**--name** <*dump\_file\_name*>

Allows you to specify a dump file name. By default, the file is named memory.elf.dmp. When you create a new dump file, it replaces the previous file (if it exists). Giving it a custom name to a file solves this issue.

**--path** <*output\_directory\_path*>]

By default, dump files are saved to the virtual machine directory. If you want to save them to another directory, specify the directory path using the **--path** parameter.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Note**: To create a dump, the virtual machine must be running or paused. Suspended virtual machines are not supported by this command. The command returns 0 (zero) on success and a non-zero value on failure.
{% endhint %}


---

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