What is proxmox?
Proxmox is an open-source virtualization platform that integrates virtual machines (VMs) and containers into a unified solution.
It is Debian/Linux based, uses KVM and LXC as its underlying virtualization technologies and has a web based UI that is very similar in approach to VMware.
Using KVM Proxmox is able to run operaring systems such as Windows and Linux fully virutalized and with LXC you can run light weight containers similar to how you would with Docker.
difference between proxmox and VMware?
Proxmox and VMware are both virtualization platforms, but they differ in several key aspects. Proxmox is an open-source solution that integrates VMs and containers into a unified platform, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
VMware is a proprietary solution known for its robust features, scalability, and comprehensive management tools, making it a preferred choice for large enterprises with complex virtualization needs, albeit at a higher cost.
Hardware Support
Proxmox tends to have broader compatibility with various hardware configurations due to its open-source nature. Generally, if your machine can run Linux and has a VT/AMD-V capable CPU, it can run proxmox.
Whereas VMware ESXi is usually more restrictive, especially for older or more consumer orientated hardware.
ESXi runs a custom kernel/hypervisor which lacks the driver and community support that Linux has.
Licencing
ESXi hosts are licensed with vSphere licenses where each license has a capacity that you can allocate to CPUs on physical hosts. For example, with vSphere 7.0 one CPU licence will cover one physical processor with up to 32 cores.
ESXi used to have a free non-opensource version for personal use but as of Febuary 12 2024 that has been discontinued.
Proxmox is similar in that it is licenced per physical CPU in a host but with no limit on the amount of cores, with a yearly subscription model which includes support and enterprise repository package access. At the time of writting proxmox basic support starts at about $200AUD a year.
Its worth also noting proxmox licencing is completely optional, if support and enterprise repository access are not required you are able to run it completely free.
Is proxmox right for enterprise?
In our opinion Proxmox is ready for enterprise use.
It offers a comprehensive set of virtualization and containerization features, including high availability, backup, and scalability, making it suitable for mission-critical workloads and is based on rock-solid opensource technologies like Debian, Linux, KVM and LXC.
With commercial support options available and a vibrant community backing its development, Proxmox provides the reliability and flexibility necessary for enterprise-grade deployments.
