Proxmox VE is an open-source virtualization solution that combines two technologies: KVM and LXC. This provides virtualization and containerization capabilities for Windows and Linux-based servers.
Understanding Proxmox Backup Options
You can perform Proxmox VM and data backups using different methods.
Proxmox Backup Server is one of the most advanced and feature-rich native solutions. On the other hand, Proxmox VE offers a lighter and simpler backup functionality.
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Proxmox Backup Server
Proxmox Backup Server (PBS) is the native functionality to back up virtual machines and data in Proxmox environments. The solution provides an enterprise-class set of backup and recovery features for VMs, containers and physical servers. You can use PBS to:
- Run incremental backups.
- Deduplicate and compress backup data.
- Synchronize data in remote storage locations to ensure redundancy.
- Encrypt backups and use RBAC to restrict access to data.
- Enable ransomware protection and efficiently respond to attacks.
- Perform full or granular recovery.
Proxmox Backup Server setup
Before proceeding with the guide to set up the Proxmox Backup Server, you need to download the official ISO and create a bootable USB drive. To correctly extract the ISO file to a USB drive, consider using apps like PowerISO or Rufus.
When the bootable USB drive is ready, insert it into the device’s USB port and boot the server from that drive. Then follow the steps below:
- On the welcome screen, choose Install Proxmox Backup Server.
- Check the EULA and click I agree to proceed.
- Choose the destination for the PBS installation. Click Next once you’ve specified the path.
- Set your country, timezone and keyboard layout. Then click Next.
- Create a root account password and provide your email address. Make sure your password is strong by including at least 8 characters (uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special symbols). When the email and password are confirmed, click Next to proceed.
- Choose a management network interface and set a hostname, IP address, gateway and DNS for Proxmox Backup Server.
- Complete the final check and launch the installation by clicking Install.
When the process is complete, the server automatically restarts.
You can now see the management URL for your PBS. Open that URL to start managing your Proxmox Backup Server.
Third-party data protection tools designed for Proxmox, such as the NAKIVO backup solution, can be a more suitable choice, with a free version available until the end of 2024, allowing users to explore its full capabilities without financial commitment.
Third-party backup tools
Specifically designed to back up Proxmox environments, these all-in-one solutions provide the desired efficiency and user-friendliness at an affordable cost. With such solutions, you get:
- Incremental backups;
- Full recovery and instant object recovery;
- Immutable storage and advanced security options for ransomware resilience;
- Multiple backup destinations.
Conclusion
You can back up Proxmox data and workloads using the native toolset. You can also recover your VMs from Proxmox backups using the GUI. The native functionality can cover your data protection needs to a certain extent, but organizations with complex environments may require additional features, security and automation. To enhance backup and recovery workflows, you can choose custom Proxmox scripting or implement a third-party backup solution that can cover all your data protection requirements.
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