> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ipor.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ipor.io/fusion-for-depositors/user-guide/faq-vault-pauses.md).

# FAQ: Vault Pauses

In decentralized finance, security is paramount. The IPOR Fusion protocol uses a modular architecture equipped with emergency safeguards—called "circuit breakers"—to protect your assets during extreme events.

This short guide explains how and why a vault might be paused, and what it means for you and your funds.

### What does it mean when a vault is paused?

When an IPOR Fusion vault is paused, it enters an emergency "frozen" state. This instantly locks down the vault's core operations, meaning the vault cannot execute new strategies, move assets to external protocols, or process deposits and withdrawals. This is a temporary defensive measure designed to secure the vault's assets while a potential threat is assessed.

### Why would a vault be paused?

A vault is typically paused only during critical, emergency situations where the safety of user funds might be compromised. Common reasons include:

* **Suspected Exploits:** If irregular activity or a potential hack is detected within the vault or an external protocol it interacts with.
* **Severe Oracle Failures:** If the price feeds (oracles) that the vault relies on to value its assets fail or report highly manipulated data.
* **Extreme Market Volatility:** If market conditions become so erratic that normal vault operations (like swapping or supplying assets) would result in unacceptable losses.

### Who can pause a vault?

Only designated security accounts (the [Guardian](/build-on-fusion/atomists/vault-configuration-step-by-step/access-management.md#guardian-role) role) have the authority to trigger a pause. This role is strictly for defensive actions and can execute a pause instantly to ensure immediate protection. The specific entity holding this power can vary from vault to vault, but it is often the vault owner or an external security service provider.

### Can I deposit or withdraw my assets during a pause?

**No.** While a vault is paused, both deposits and withdrawals are temporarily halted.

* **Deposits:** You cannot add new funds or mint new shares.
* **Withdrawals:** You cannot execute instant withdrawals or redeem scheduled withdrawal requests.

This lockdown ensures that if an exploit or oracle manipulation is occurring, malicious actors cannot drain assets from the vault.

### What happens to my scheduled withdrawal request?

If you have initiated a scheduled withdrawal, your request remains safely in the queue. However, you will not be able to finalize the redemption (exchange your shares for assets) until the vault is unpaused and normal operations resume.

### Does a pause affect the whole IPOR Fusion protocol?

**No.** Because IPOR Fusion uses an isolated architecture, a pause is localized to a specific vault or supporting contract. If Vault A is paused due to a suspected issue, Vault B continues to operate normally, assuming it is unaffected by the threat.

### How is a pause lifted?

Once the vault's operating team has assessed the situation and confirmed that the threat has been resolved or mitigated (for example, by removing a compromised external protocol from the vault's strategy), the appropriate authority will unpause the vault.

As soon as the vault is unpaused, all normal operations, including your ability to deposit and withdraw, will resume.