Limits on backing up the webapps directory while Tomcat is running

The goal is to obtain a file‑system backup of a Tomcat webapp that reflects a consistent state without requiring the server to be stopped.

Tomcat’s documentation describes copying the webapps directory (or the whole CATALINA_BASE) as a common backup method, but it does not specify whether the operation is safe while Tomcat is actively serving requests, compiling JSPs, or holding file locks on deployed archives.

Is it safe to copy the webapps directory while Tomcat is processing requests? What corruption risks arise from concurrent JSP class file writes during a backup? Should administrators quiesce Tomcat or rely on the Manager app’s undeploy/deploy cycle for a reliable backup?