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Proxmox as a VMware alternative: when switching makes sense

Since Broadcom acquired VMware, many companies look for alternatives. Proxmox VE is an open-source virtualisation platform that is an option for many mid-sized environments.

By INZOSO Resilience · Updated · 2 min read

What Proxmox VE is

Proxmox Virtual Environment (VE) combines KVM virtualisation for virtual machines with LXC containers, clustering, high availability, storage integration and a web interface. The software is open source; paid subscriptions provide support and stable update repositories.

When switching makes sense

  • Licence costs for your current platform are rising or hard to plan.
  • Your environment consists of common Windows and Linux servers.
  • You want vendor independence and open formats.
  • Your team is willing to learn Linux-based administration, or you use a service provider.

What to check

  • Features: are special functions used that do not exist this way?
  • Backup: Proxmox Backup Server offers incremental, deduplicated backups; third-party solutions are possible.
  • Storage: local disks, ZFS, Ceph or external systems, depending on availability goals.
  • Migration: import of virtual machines, drivers and network adjustments.
  • Support and operation: who monitors, updates and resolves incidents?
  • Vendor approvals: check whether business applications are supported on this platform.

Approach

Start with a test system, migrate non-critical machines first and plan the way back. An inventory of virtual machines, dependencies and maintenance windows avoids surprises. We support from planning to operation.

Proxmox VEVMware alternativevirtualisation SMBBroadcom VMwareVMware to Proxmox migration

Frequently asked questions

Is Proxmox an alternative to VMware?

For many mid-sized environments yes. Proxmox VE offers virtualisation, containers, clustering and high availability. Whether it fits depends on the functions used, storage and vendor approvals.

Is Proxmox free?

The software is open source and free to use. Paid subscriptions offer support and stable update repositories.

How do you migrate from VMware to Proxmox?

Virtual machines can be imported or converted. Drivers, network and backup must be adapted and tested beforehand.

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PrTECHNOLOGIES IN THIS ARTICLE

Proxmox

Virtualization platform for VMs and containers with cluster capabilities.

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