Proxmox Virtual Environment (Proxmox VE) is a powerful, open-source platform for virtualization. It allows you to run virtual machines (VMs) and containers efficiently, making it perfect for homelabs. This guide walks you through deploying a Proxmox VE server, enabling you to consolidate workloads and experiment with virtualized environments.

What You’ll Need

  • A dedicated machine for Proxmox VE (minimum specs: 4 GB RAM, 64-bit processor, and 32 GB storage).
  • Proxmox VE ISO file from the Proxmox download page.
  • A USB drive (at least 8 GB) for creating bootable media.
  • A reliable internet connection.

Step 1: Prepare the Installation Media

  1. Download the Proxmox VE ISO file from the official website.
    Proxmox Interface
  2. Use a tool like Rufus or balenaEtcher to create a bootable USB drive with the Proxmox ISO.

Step 2: Install Proxmox VE

  1. Insert the bootable USB into your server and boot from it.

  2. Follow the installation wizard:

    • Accept the license agreement.
    • Select the target disk for installation.
    • Configure the root password and email address.
    • Set the network configuration (assign a static IP address for easier access).

  3. Complete the installation and reboot the server. Remove the USB drive during the reboot.

Step 3: Access the Proxmox Web Interface

  1. On another device, open a web browser and go to:
https://<your_proxmox_ip>:8006
  1. Log in using the root credentials set during installation.

Step 4: Update and Configure Proxmox VE

  1. Update Proxmox VE to ensure it has the latest features and security patches:
apt update && apt full-upgrade -y
  1. Disable the enterprise repository (if you’re not using a subscription):
sed -i 's|deb https://enterprise.proxmox.com/debian|#deb https://enterprise.proxmox.com/debian|' /etc/apt/sources.list.d/pve-enterprise.list
  1. Add the Proxmox community repository:
echo "deb http://download.proxmox.com/debian/pve bullseye pve-no-subscription" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/pve-no-subscription.list
  1. Refresh package lists and update:
apt update && apt full-upgrade -y

Step 5: Set Up Storage

  1. Navigate to the Datacenter section in the web interface.
  2. Configure storage for VMs and containers:
  • Add local storage for ISO images and backups.
  • Add networked storage (NFS, CIFS) if needed.

Step 6: Create Your First Virtual Machine (VM)

  1. Upload an ISO image (e.g., Ubuntu) to your Proxmox storage:
  • Go to Datacenter > Storage > ISO Images > Upload.
    ISOuploadLocation
  1. Create a new VM:
  • Navigate to Create VM in the Proxmox web interface.
  • Follow the wizard to assign resources like CPU, RAM, and disk space.
  1. Start the VM and install the operating system.

Step 7: Configure Containers (Optional)

Proxmox VE supports LXC containers, which are lightweight alternatives to VMs.

  1. Download container templates:
  • Go to Datacenter > Storage > CT Templates > Templates > Download.
  1. Create a container:
  • Navigate to Create CT and follow the wizard.

Step 8: Backup and Restore

  1. Set up backups to ensure data safety:
  • Go to Datacenter > Backup > Add to schedule backups.
  1. Restore VMs or containers by selecting Restore from the backup menu.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a VM and a container in Proxmox VE?
A: VMs emulate an entire operating system, while containers share the host kernel, making them more lightweight and faster to deploy.

Q: Can I use Proxmox VE on a Raspberry Pi?
A: No, Proxmox VE requires a 64-bit x86 processor, which Raspberry Pis do not support.

Q: How do I add a second storage drive to Proxmox VE?
A: Use the web interface to configure storage:

  • Go to Datacenter > Storage > Add and choose the storage type (e.g., Directory, LVM, NFS).

Q: Does Proxmox VE support GPU passthrough?
A: Yes, Proxmox VE supports GPU passthrough for VMs, allowing direct access to the GPU for intensive workloads.

Q: Is Proxmox VE free?
A: Yes, Proxmox VE is free and open source. However, you can purchase a subscription for access to the enterprise repository and support.

Q: How do I access VMs from another device?
A: Use the Proxmox web interface to access VMs via the integrated console or configure network access to the VM for SSH, RDP, or VNC.

Q: Can I run Proxmox VE as a VM itself?
A: Yes, Proxmox VE can run as a VM for testing purposes, but nested virtualization must be supported by the host.

Proxmox VE is a versatile platform that can turn your homelab into a virtualization powerhouse. Experiment, learn, and unlock the full potential of your homelab!