Unraid is a flexible platform for NAS systems and virtualization, but if you’re looking for a more powerful, flexible and free solution, Proxmox could be the ideal choice. In this article, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make the switch from Unraid to Proxmox, what advantages Proxmox offers and what you should look out for. So let’s get started with the switch from unRaid to Proxmox.
Why switch from Unraid to Proxmox?
Unraid offers many useful functions, but Proxmox scores with numerous advantages, especially for users who want to optimize their IT infrastructure:
1. free of charge
While Unraid requires a paid license, Proxmox is available completely free of charge as open source software. Optional support models are available for companies.
2. more flexibility
Proxmox offers extensive options for virtualization (KVM) and containerization (LXC) and supports cluster setups and highly available environments.
3. availability
unRaid is licensed via the GUID of the USB stick. It is therefore not possible to install unRaid on SSDs or a RAID. If the USB stick fails, the unRaid server also fails. If you would like to continue using unRaid, you can take a look at our USB sticks for unRaid recommendations. There are also other alternatives for the unRaid USB boot stick.
4. high-performance storage options
With ZFS as an integrated option, Proxmox offers advanced storage management that combines RAID, snapshots and data integrity.
5. extensive community and documentation
The Proxmox community is large and active, with numerous tutorials, forums and documentation that can help you with the changeover.
Alternative: use unRaid and Proxmox together (unRaid as VM under Proxmox)
If you like unRaid, but want to change because you lack functions or don’t like the probability of failure, there is an alternative: You can combine the simplicity of unRaid with the possibilities and the enterprise hypervisor Proxmox. You can install unRaid as a VM in Proxmox. Unfortunately, the dependency on the USB stick remains.
unRaid vs. Proxmox – The differences
Before we look at the migration from unRaid to Proxmox, we need to compare the two hypervisors. Basically, both server operating systems are very similar, but the subtleties differ.
The similarities
First the similarities: Proxmox and unRaid both rely on KVM for their virtualization options.
What is KVM?
KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) is a virtualization technology that makes it possible to run virtual machines (VMs) directly in the Linux kernel. It uses the virtualization extensions of modern processors (such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V) to virtualize the hardware directly. KVM is fully integrated into the Linux kernel and makes it possible to run multiple isolated VMs on a single physical host. Each VM runs its own operating system and has direct access to virtual hardware, creating an efficient and scalable virtualization solution. KVM is often used in server environments and cloud platforms such as Proxmox.
KVM is now the most widespread virtualization technology and is also used by hyperscalers such as Amazon AWS or Google Cloud.
Both systems can be set up conveniently via a web interface. VMs and containers can be created and managed.
The differences
Proxmox is an enterprise hypervisor that competes with VM Ware ESXI, XenServer, Nutanix and Hyper-V. unRaid is aimed at home users and is designed as a home server operating system. Proxmox can be installed on a ZFS RAID so that the server continues to run even if an SSD / HDD fails. unRaid only runs on a USB stick, a weak point.
Proxmox is based on the Linux distribution Debian while unRaid is based on FreeBSD. What makes unRaid so special is the parity system. With the parity system, hard disks of different sizes can be combined and protected against data loss by using a parity drive. This solution is very flexible and perfect for home users who use different hard disk sizes.
Containers and the Community Applications
While unRaid natively supports Docker, the containers in Proxmox are implemented with LXC Containers. The Community Applications plugin adds an “app store” to unRaid, which can be used to install Docker containers very easily.
There is no such integration for Proxmox. However, there is a similar project: Helper-Scripts.com where you can find scripts that automatically install LXC containers and VMs. All you have to do is type a command into the shell and then start a setup that queries certain information (e.g. network connection) and then creates the container.
However, the selection of helper scripts is not quite as large as the Docker and plugins in the unRaid Applications plugin.
Proxmox is not a NAS
An important difference: Proxmox is not a NAS (Network Attached Storage) but a pure hypervisor. Unlike unRaid, it is not possible to create native storage under Proxmox. However, you can create a VM or an LXC container that provides an NFS or SMB service. Or simply create a VM with TrueNAS or unRaid. It is therefore somewhat more complex to restore unRaids functionalities under Proxmox.
Preparation for switching from unRaid to Proxmox
Before you start the changeover, you should follow a few basic steps:
1. save data
Unraid is often used as a NAS. It is therefore important to back up all data to an external medium or a second storage device. Use tools such as rsync or Unraid plugins such as CA Backup/Restore Appdata for this.
2. check hardware
Proxmox does not require any special hardware, but runs optimally on modern hardware with virtualization support (VT-d/AMD-V). Make sure that your system meets the requirements:
- At least 8 GB RAM (more is recommended).
- One or better two separate hard disks or SSDs for Proxmox.
- Additional drives for the data.
It is recommended to install Proxmox on a ZFS RAID, i.e. a ZFS RAID-1 on two SSDs. If an SSD fails, it can be replaced during operation.
3. document the Unraid configuration
Create screenshots and save configuration files of your Unraid setups. This allows you to reconstruct the same network settings, VM configurations or Docker containers in Proxmox.
Install and set up Proxmox
1. download and install Proxmox
- Download the Proxmox VE ISO image from the official Proxmox website.
- Create a bootable USB stick with tools such as Rufus or balenaEtcher.
- Install Proxmox on your server. During installation, select ZFS as the file system to benefit from advantages such as snapshots and integrated RAID function.
2. make basic settings
After installation, you can access Proxmox via the web interface(https://IP-Adresse:8006). Ensure the following settings:
- Network configuration: Adapt the network settings to your environment.
- Set up storage: Add your additional drives as ZFS pools or other storage options.
- User accounts: Set up users and rights.
2. install services
Install the required services using the Proxmox helper scripts or create a VM with the Docker containers.
Conclusion
Switching from unRaid to Proxmox may seem complex at first, but it offers numerous advantages for users looking for a powerful, flexible and open platform. Proxmox impresses with its versatility in virtualization, the efficient use of resources and the ability to seamlessly combine containers and virtual machines.
While unRaid is appreciated for its ease of use and focus on NAS features, Proxmox opens up a wider range of uses that are attractive to both home users and businesses. Particularly noteworthy are the native support of ZFS, the extensive backup management and the active community that can facilitate a smooth transition.
Those who are prepared to familiarize themselves with the extensive configuration options of Proxmox will be rewarded with a stable and future-proof platform that meets the requirements of modern IT environments. The changeover may involve effort, but the increased control and flexibility make this step worthwhile for many users.