FlashCopy creates a capacity-efficient, point-in-time copy of a physical volume for data protection uses, such as file restoration and backup. A FlashCopy volume is the logical equivalent of the physical volume, but is created more quickly than a physical copy and with minimal disruption to applications and production processes. Using copy-on-write technology, FlashCopy volumes preserve data in its original form even as data in the physical (source) volume is changed. FlashCopy volumes appear and function as standard storage volumes, and restoration of a FlashCopy volume is quick and easy.