What is proxmox?

Proxmox is an open-source server virtualization management platform that combines the functionality of virtualization, containerization, and software-defined storage in a single solution. It is based on the Debian Linux distribution and uses the Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) and Linux Containers (LXC) technologies for virtualization.

Here are some key features of Proxmox:

1. Virtualization: Proxmox supports both full virtualization through KVM and lightweight containerization with LXC. This allows you to run multiple virtual machines (VMs) and containers on a single physical host.

2. High Availability: Proxmox provides high availability features that ensure minimal downtime for critical applications. It includes built-in clustering, automated failover, and migration capabilities for VMs and containers.

3. Web-based Management Interface: Proxmox offers a web-based graphical user interface (GUI) called Proxmox VE that allows easy management of virtualized environments. The GUI provides a comprehensive set of tools for configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting VMs and containers.

4. Storage Management: Proxmox supports various storage options, including local storage, network-attached storage (NAS), and storage area networks (SAN). It also offers software-defined storage using technologies like Ceph and ZFS, which enables efficient and scalable storage management.

5. Backup and Disaster Recovery: Proxmox includes built-in backup and disaster recovery functionalities. It enables scheduled backups of VMs and containers to local or remote destinations, ensuring data protection and easy restoration in case of failures.

6. Community and Enterprise Editions: Proxmox is available in two editions: the Community Edition (CE), which is free and open-source, and the Enterprise Edition (EE), which is a subscription-based version that offers additional features, support, and updates.

7. Active Community: Proxmox has a large and active community of users and developers who regularly contribute to its development and provide support through forums, mailing lists, and online resources.

Proxmox is widely used by organizations of all sizes, including businesses, educational institutions, and service providers, for virtualization and containerization needs. Its flexibility, robustness, and extensive feature set make it a popular choice for building and managing virtualized environments.