Proxmox Server Solutions GmbH has officially launched Proxmox Virtual Environment (VE) 8.3, the latest version of its powerful open-source virtualization platform. After seven months of development, this release introduces significant updates designed to streamline IT infrastructure management and provide greater flexibility to businesses and users.
Based on Debian 12.8 (Bookworm) and featuring Linux kernel 6.8 as the default, Proxmox VE 8.3 also offers users the option to use kernel 6.11 for access to the latest Linux features. With more than 1.3 million hosts deployed worldwide, the platform incorporates major updates to core technologies, including QEMU 9.0.2, LXC 6.0, and ZFS 2.2.6.
Advanced Networking and Firewall Integration
One of the standout features of this release is the enhanced integration between the software-defined networking (SDN) stack and the firewall. Administrators can now automatically generate IP sets for virtual networks and virtual machines, simplifying IP address management and firewall rule creation. Additionally, the firewall, now based on nftables, allows for advanced filtering of forwarded network traffic, such as SNAT traffic or inter-zone communications, at both the host and virtual network levels.
Webhook Notifications and Tag-Based Views
Proxmox VE 8.3 introduces an expanded notification system with support for webhook targets. Administrators can configure events, such as system updates or backup jobs, to trigger HTTP requests to external services that support webhooks, enabling seamless integration with third-party platforms.
The update also adds a new “Tag View” feature to the resource tree. This functionality allows users to organize and visualize virtual machines based on assigned tags, making it easier to manage resources in large-scale environments.
Extended Support for Ceph and Optimized Backups
Proxmox VE 8.3 enhances its compatibility with Ceph, including support for Ceph Squid 19.2.0 (as a technology preview), in addition to continued support for Ceph Reef 18.2.4 and Ceph Quincy 17.2.7. Administrators can select their preferred Ceph version during installation, offering greater flexibility in storage configuration.
In terms of backups, container backups have been optimized significantly. When backing up to Proxmox Backup Server, unchanged files are now automatically detected and skipped, reducing processing time and improving backup efficiency.
Simplified Migration from Other Hypervisors
The new version makes migrating from other virtualization platforms easier than ever. Proxmox VE 8.3 allows users to directly import files in Open Virtualization Format (OVF) and Open Virtualization Appliance (OVA) formats from file-based storage via the web interface. An import wizard further simplifies the process of migrating virtual machines from hypervisors such as VMware, making the transition to this open-source platform more accessible.
Statements from Proxmox Leadership
Thomas Lamprecht, CTO of Proxmox, emphasized the importance of the advanced SDN capabilities in the latest release, stating, “The integration of advanced software-defined networking capabilities enables businesses to simplify their IT infrastructure, improve agility, and foster scalable growth.” Tim Marx, COO of Proxmox, highlighted the project’s significant growth over recent months, with 300,000 new active hosts added, bringing the total to 1.3 million. “We are well-positioned to capitalize on market opportunities, particularly after recent pricing changes in the sector,” Marx added.
Availability and Support
Proxmox VE 8.3 is now available for download on the official Proxmox website and can be installed on bare-metal servers. Upgrades from previous versions are supported via the apt package manager. Proxmox VE is distributed under the GNU Affero General Public License v3, with enterprise support subscriptions starting at €110 per year per CPU socket.
With this update, Proxmox reinforces its commitment to delivering robust, accessible virtualization solutions, solidifying its position as a leading alternative to proprietary platforms.
David Carrero, co-founder of Stackscale (Grupo Aire), highlighted Proxmox’s versatility, stating, “The Proxmox hypervisor stands out as a flexible solution for all types of virtualization needs, providing an excellent alternative to proprietary systems like VMware, Citrix, or Hyper-V.”
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