Proxmox

Choosing the right storage backend for Proxmox VE can make or break your virtualization setup. Whether you’re running a single-node homelab or a multi-node cluster, understanding the differences between ZFS, LVM-Thin, Ceph, and NFS is critical for performance, reliability, and scalability. 💡 This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down each storage option, explore their strengths and weaknesses, and help you decide which one is best for your specific needs. ...

Backups are the foundation of any reliable homelab. Whether you’re running production services or just experimenting, losing your virtual machines and containers to hardware failure, accidental deletion, or ransomware is a nightmare you can avoid with proper Proxmox backup strategies. 💡 This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more. Proxmox VE offers multiple backup solutions, each designed for different use cases. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every backup method available in Proxmox, from built-in vzdump to the powerful Proxmox Backup Server, and help you design a backup strategy that matches your needs and budget. ...

You don’t need a rack server to self-host. In fact, a mini PC is the sweet spot for most homelabbers — low power consumption, silent operation, tiny footprint, and enough performance to run Proxmox with a dozen VMs and containers without breaking a sweat. I’ve tested a lot of these machines. Here are the ones actually worth buying in 2026, organized by budget. 💡 This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more. Why a Mini PC? Before the recommendations, here’s why mini PCs beat traditional server hardware for most home setups: ...

The hypervisor debate used to be simple: ESXi for enterprise, Proxmox for hobbyists. That’s no longer remotely accurate. After Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware turned the entire VMware ecosystem into a pricing nightmare, the landscape has fundamentally shifted. Let me break down where things stand in 2026. The short version: Proxmox wins for homelabs, small businesses, and an increasing number of enterprises. ESXi still has a place in large enterprise environments with specific compliance needs. But for anyone reading a self-hosting blog? Proxmox. No question. ...