One of the key highlights of Proxmox VE 8.4 is the introduction of live migration with mediated devices, which allows the segmentation of physical hardware resources into multiple virtual devices, such as NVIDIA vGPU. This functionality enables the seamless migration of active virtual machines (VMs) across nodes within a cluster, provided that the necessary hardware and driver support is present on the target node. To facilitate the configuration of NVIDIA vGPU drivers, the new 'pve-nvidia-vgpu-helper' tool has been introduced.
Additionally, the release includes an API that simplifies the integration of third-party backup solutions. This API allows external backup providers to develop plugins that can be directly implemented within Proxmox VE, enhancing the backup and restore capabilities and increasing overall efficiency and manageability for users.
The virtiofs directory passthrough feature allows for the direct sharing of files and directories between the host and VMs without the overhead of a network file system. This feature is supported by modern Linux guests natively, while Windows users may need additional software.
Proxmox VE 8.4 also includes updates to various open-source technologies, such as QEMU 9.2.0, LXC 6.0.0, ZFS 2.2.7 (with compatibility patches for kernel 6.14), and Ceph Squid 19.2.1. Furthermore, enhancements to backup solutions, improvements in the software-defined networking framework, and expanded options within the ISO installer have been introduced.
In summary, Proxmox VE 8.4 represents a significant advancement for users looking to leverage virtualization technology, offering improved performance, flexibility, and integration with third-party solutions. This release not only enhances the functionality of the Proxmox Virtual Environment but also reinforces its commitment to utilizing leading open-source technologies to provide a robust virtualization platform
Proxmox VE 8.4 released
Proxmox VE 8.4 is now available for download. It is built on Debian 12.10 "Bookworm" and utilizes Linux kernel 6.8.12, with kernel 6.14 available as an opt-in option. The release encompasses features including live migration with mediated devices, an API for third-party backup solutions, and virtiofs directory passthrough. Live migration enables the segmentation of active virtual machines (VMs) into various virtual devices, including NVIDIA vGPU. The newly introduced 'pve-nvidia-vgpu-helper' tool streamlines the configuration process for NVIDIA vGPU drivers. The release additionally features updates to the most recent versions of prominent open-source technologies for virtual environments, including QEMU 9.2.0, LXC 6.0.0, ZFS 2.2.7, and Ceph Squid 19.2.1. Additional enhancements cover more resilient backup solutions, advancements in the software-defined networking framework, and expanded options within the ISO installer.