Best Linux Distros for Proxmox

Choosing the right Linux distribution for Proxmox can significantly affect your virtualization experience. This guide highlights the best distros to optimize your Proxmox setup, whether you're a beginner or an advanced user.

What makes a good Proxmox distro?

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Stability

A stable distribution ensures that your Proxmox environment runs smoothly without unexpected crashes or downtime.

⚙️

Kernel Support

Up-to-date kernel support is crucial for leveraging the latest hardware capabilities and security features.

🔒

Security

Security-focused distributions help protect your virtual machines from vulnerabilities and attacks.

📦

Package Management

Efficient package management systems make it easier to install and update software, ensuring your Proxmox setup is always current.

Recommended distros

Our top picks for proxmox, ranked by overall experience.

1
Debian Icon

Debian

Rock-solid stability

Debian is renowned for its stability and extensive software repository, making it an ideal choice for Proxmox users seeking a reliable and secure environment.

  • Excellent stability
  • Large repository
  • Strong community support
  • Regular security updates
2
Ubuntu Icon

Ubuntu

User-friendly and versatile

Ubuntu offers a user-friendly experience with regular updates, making it a versatile option for both new and experienced Proxmox users.

  • User-friendly interface
  • LTS versions available
  • Wide hardware support
  • Strong community support
3
Centos Stream Icon

CentOS Stream

Enterprise-oriented stability

CentOS Stream provides a rolling-release model with a stable base, perfect for enterprise environments needing a reliable Proxmox setup.

  • Rolling release with stability
  • Enterprise-grade support
  • Seamless upgrade paths
  • Robust security features
4
Almalinux Icon

AlmaLinux

Community-driven alternative

AlmaLinux is a community-driven project designed to be a CentOS alternative, offering stability and support for Proxmox installations.

  • CentOS alternative
  • Strong community support
  • High compatibility with Red Hat
  • Regular security updates
5
Rocky Linux Icon

Rocky Linux

Resilient and reliable

Rocky Linux aims to replicate the stability and reliability of CentOS, providing a solid foundation for running Proxmox in production environments.

  • CentOS successor
  • Stable and reliable
  • Community-driven
  • Enterprise-ready
6
Opensuse Icon

openSUSE

Flexible and powerful

openSUSE provides a powerful and flexible operating system with robust tools, making it a great choice for advanced Proxmox users.

  • Flexible and customizable
  • Strong toolset (YaST)
  • Active community
  • Regular updates

Compare proxmox distros

Not sure which to pick? These comparisons might help.

Proxmox FAQ

Why is Debian recommended for Proxmox?

Debian is known for its stability and large software repository, which are crucial for maintaining a reliable Proxmox environment.

Can I use Ubuntu for Proxmox?

Yes, Ubuntu's user-friendly nature and LTS versions make it a popular choice for Proxmox, offering a good balance of stability and features.

What is the benefit of using CentOS Stream with Proxmox?

CentOS Stream provides a stable base with a rolling-release model, ensuring you have access to the latest features while maintaining reliability.

Is AlmaLinux a good choice for Proxmox?

AlmaLinux offers compatibility with Red Hat, providing a stable and secure environment for Proxmox installations, especially in enterprise settings.

How does Rocky Linux support Proxmox users?

Rocky Linux aims to offer the stability and reliability of CentOS, making it suitable for running Proxmox in production environments.

Why choose openSUSE for Proxmox?

openSUSE offers a flexible and powerful environment with comprehensive tools like YaST, catering to advanced Proxmox users seeking customization.

Related categories

Not sure which to pick?

Compare any two distros side-by-side.