Create a virtual KVM machine
Deploy a Linux or Windows VM on Proxmox: ISO, CPU, RAM, disk, bridge network and first boot.
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View offers and orderCreate a KVM virtual machine on Proxmox
The VM KVM on Proxmox are complete virtual machines with a dedicated kernel, ideal for Linux, Windows Server or apps. This guide details the step by step creation: ISO, CPU, RAM, disk, network and first boot.
Prerequisite
- Proxmox access, first access
- Resources available (vCore, RAM, storage) on your node
- ISO file (Debian, Ubuntu, Windows...) downloaded into local storage
Assisted Creation (Create VM)
- Datacenter → your node → Create VM
- General : VM unique ID, name (e.g.
web-prod-01) - OS: select ISO, Linux/Windows type, guest OS version
- System : SCSI controller VirtIO SCSI, Qemu agent if Linux
- Disks: size as needed, write back cache, SSD if NVMe
- CPU: sockets/cores within the limits of your offer
- Memory: RAM allocated (minimum 512 MB for light Linux)
- Network : bridge
vmbr0, model VirtIO, MAC auto - Validate and start the VM, open the console for OS installation
Do not exceed the total vCore/RAM/disc of your offer. Monitor the node resource summary before creating multiple VMs.
Post-installation optimizations
- Install qemu-guest-agent for clean shutdown and IP reporting
- VirtIO Drivers for Windows Drive and Network
- Configure static IP or DHCP according to your network
Clone & template
After clean installation, convert to a template for quick deployments, see templates & cloud-init.
Troubleshooting
- VM does not start, ISO unattached, boot order incorrect
- No network, bridge vmbr0, disconnected virtual cable
- Low performance, too many vCPU allocated vs physical, overprovisioning RAM