> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.cloudeka.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.cloudeka.ai/cloudeka-api-list/command-reference/cldkctl-vm/start.md).

# start

The cldkctl vm start command powers on a virtual machine (VM) by specifying its name. This command initializes the VM, allocates required resources such as CPU, memory, and network, and sets the VM to a running state. It is used to start a VM that is currently in a Stopped state. Ensure that you have the appropriate permissions to perform this action, and that the VM is in a stopped condition before attempting to start it.

## Usage

```
cldkctl vm start [name] [flags]
```

## Aliases

```
start, turn-on, on
```

## Steps

Follow the steps below to run and view the result of this command:

1. Run the following command in your terminal and replace \<vm\_name> with your virtual machine name.

```
cldkctl vm start <vm_name>
```

2. Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to perform this operation and that the virtual machine is currently in a Stopped state.
3. Once executed, the system initializes the VM, allocates CPU, memory, and network resources, and transitions the VM to a Running state.
4. Once the VM has successfully started, a confirmation message “Virtual Machine started” will appear in the terminal

<figure><img src="/files/FyzbaYQzCGHJBSBAPb2j" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Flags

{% hint style="info" %}
This command supports [global flags](/cloudeka-api-list/global-flags.md). Refer to the Global Flags section for details
{% endhint %}

| Flag                   | Description                                             |
| ---------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------- |
| -h, --help             | Help for the command.                                   |
| -n, --namespace string | Specifies the cluster namespace to scope the operation. |
| -p, --project string   | Specifies the project ID.                               |