Introduction

In this blog post, I will guide you through the process of setting up a Proxmox server on an old Dell ( or any) computer. Proxmox is an open-source virtualization management platform that allows you to run multiple virtual machines on a single physical machine. By repurposing your old computer, you can create a powerful and cost-effective server for various applications. Let’s dive in!

Turn old pc into Proxmox server

Step 1: Hardware Requirements Before proceeding, make sure your old computer meets the minimum requirements for running Proxmox. Ensure you have the following:

  • A compatible computer with a 64-bit processor (preferably with virtualization support)
  • Sufficient RAM for your intended workload (8GB or more is recommended)
  • Adequate storage capacity (consider using multiple hard drives for better performance and data redundancy)
  • Reliable network connectivity (Ethernet port or compatible Wi-Fi adapter will work but I recommend hard wired)

Step 2: Downloading Proxmox VE Visit the Proxmox website (proxmox.com) and navigate to the Downloads section. Select the ISO installation image that matches your computer’s architecture. Download the ISO file onto a USB drive or burn it to a DVD.

Step 3: Installing Proxmox VE Insert the USB drive or DVD into your old computer and boot it up. Make sure the computer is set to boot from the USB drive or DVD. The Proxmox installer should start. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Proxmox VE on your computer’s hard drive.

Step 4: Initial Configuration After the installation is complete, reboot the computer. Proxmox VE’s web interface should be accessible from another computer on the same network. Open a web browser and enter the IP address of your computer in the address bar. You will be prompted to log in with the username “root” and the password you set during the installation.

Step 5: Network Configuration Once you’re logged in, navigate to the “Network” section in the Proxmox web interface. Configure your network settings, including IP addresses, subnet masks, and gateway information, according to your network setup.

Step 6: Creating Virtual Machines Now that your Proxmox server is up and running, you can start creating virtual machines (VMs). Click on the “Create VM” button and follow the wizard to configure the VM’s specifications, such as the amount of RAM, CPU cores, and storage space.

Step 7: Installing Operating Systems After creating a VM, select it from the Proxmox web interface and click on the “Console” button to access the VM’s console. Install your preferred operating system on the VM, just as you would on a physical computer.

Step 8: Managing Virtual Machines Proxmox provides various tools for managing your virtual machines. You can start, stop, pause, and delete VMs directly from the web interface. Additionally, you can take snapshots, clone VMs, and configure networking and storage options to suit your needs.

How to set Up a Proxmox Server on an Old Computer

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can repurpose your old Dell computer into a Proxmox server, enabling you to run multiple virtual machines efficiently. Proxmox offers a user-friendly web interface and a range of features for managing your virtual environment. Whether you’re exploring virtualization or need a reliable server for home or small-scale business applications, setting up a Proxmox server on an old computer can be an excellent solution.

There may be other ways to build this pc but “IT Fixed it for me”. Please post any comments below.