# Droplet Concepts

Generated on 27 Mar 2026

DigitalOcean Droplets are Linux-based virtual machines (VMs) that run on top of virtualized hardware. Each Droplet you create is a new server you can use, either standalone or as part of a larger, cloud-based infrastructure.

[Choosing the Right CPU Droplet Plan](https://docs.digitalocean.com/products/droplets/concepts/choosing-a-plan/index.html.md): In-depth comparisons of available CPU Droplet plans, including hardware and software, an explanation of shared CPU and dedicated CPU plans, and how to make a data-driven decision on which plan is best for your use case.

[Considerations when Downsizing to a Smaller Droplet](https://docs.digitalocean.com/products/droplets/concepts/downsizing-considerations/index.html.md): Recommendations for downsizing Droplets, including making backups, manging DNS records and IP addresses, and migrating files.

[Autoscale Pool Concepts](https://docs.digitalocean.com/products/droplets/concepts/autoscale-pools/index.html.md): Conceptual and technical details on Droplet autoscale pools, like what happens during scaling events, how the size of the pool is calculated, and when to scale.

[Droplets Glossary](/glossary/droplets/): This glossary defines DigitalOcean-specific terms related to Droplets.