Proxmox has released version 0.9 Beta of Datacenter Manager (PDM), their new centralized management tool designed to provide a unified view of nodes and clusters. The project, entirely developed in Rust and based on Debian 13 “Trixie” with kernel 6.14.11 and ZFS 2.3.4, positions itself as a key step toward modern infrastructure management.
Main features of the beta
The new version introduces functions that enhance control and visibility in complex environments:
- EVPN configuration for software-defined networks (SDN) between clusters from a single interface.
- Improved search, streamlining resource location.
- More efficient metric collection, boosting backend performance.
- User privilege management via the access control interface.
- Direct upgrade from Alpha version, ensuring continuity for early adopters.
A “single pane of glass” for Proxmox VE
Proxmox Datacenter Manager is designed to provide a single dashboard for monitoring and basic management of the entire infrastructure. Its capabilities include live migrations of virtual guests without the need for a cluster network and integration with Proxmox VE 8 or higher via API.
Internal testing shows that Proxmox has managed over 5,000 remote hosts and up to 10,000 virtual machines without compromising the performance of the new interface framework. The goal is for the platform to reliably scale in large deployments.
Revamped user experience
The frontend, built on a new widget toolkit, aims to deliver a modern experience in terms of speed, accessibility, and compatibility. This marks a significant change from the company’s more traditional interfaces, aligning with the demand for more agile UI in IT management environments.
Future integrations and roadmap
Currently, PDM focuses on Proxmox VE, but the company has confirmed plans to integrate Proxmox Backup Server in future stable releases, and has also left the door open for projects like Proxmox Mail Gateway and Offline Mirror.
The beta cycle will continue until the first stable version, expected by late 2025. During this period, Proxmox will prioritize bug fixes, performance improvements, and compatibility updates related to major ecosystem releases.
Requirements and deployment
- Supported environment: any Debian x86-64/AMD64 system.
- Installation: via ISO available on the Proxmox portal or through apt repositories configured with
pdm-test. - Recommendation: While it’s possible to install alongside Proxmox VE or Proxmox Backup Server, it is not advised unless for advanced users.
- Network: PDM must connect directly to all remote nodes to send API requests and gather metrics. Using secure tunnels like WireGuard or OpenVPN is recommended over exposing hosts to public networks.
A solid foundation for modern management
Proxmox founder Pavel Odintsov emphasized that the scale of current deployments demands new approaches:
“Without proactive filtering and detection at the ISP level and modern orchestration tools, complex environments face exponential risks. Proxmox Datacenter Manager is born to address these challenges with a robust, scalable, and secure design.”
With this launch, Proxmox aims to strengthen its position in infrastructure management by offering sysadmins a unified, lightweight, and scalable tool that complements its well-established Proxmox Virtual Environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I upgrade from Alpha to Beta?
Yes, following the official guide. The upgrade is straightforward and preserves existing configurations.
Which versions of Proxmox VE are supported?
Minimum supported is Proxmox VE 8, with support for all active versions.
How many clusters can I manage with a single PDM instance?
Tests have managed over 5,000 remote hosts and 10,000 virtual machines, validating its use in large-scale environments.
What other Proxmox projects will be supported?
Future integration with Proxmox Backup Server is confirmed, with evaluation ongoing for Mail Gateway and other products.