Hello,
I want to set up the following: Linux Server with typical SME services (AD DC, Fileserver, Groupware). It is supposed to serve ~3-5TB files to ~20 users.
I tested nethserver and really liked it. For the production environment I try to find the optimal setup. For various reasons, it appears to be a good idea to run it virtualized. I don’t have much experience with Proxmox but it seems to fit well. What I’m unsure about is the storage and backup setup for this environment.
My first approach would be a standard SME server with two large SATA-HDDs, then run Proxmox and storing the VMs on a RAID 1 using ZFS. In many recommendations (many by @Andy_Wismer) I read to store the VMs on a dedicated NAS. To be honest, I don’t really understand the advantage. At first glance, I see some disadvantages (more complexity, additional point of failure, the LAN link between Server and NAS is a potential bottleneck compared to local storage). Could you maybe shed some light what I’m missing here?
My second concern is how to handle the backup. Anyway, I would use nethservers internal functionality to backup configuration and data (e.g., to a NAS). Additionally, I’d like to store complete VM snapshots / images - for me this is one of the biggest advantages of virtualization here. Proxmox’ internal backup function seems unfeasible. Copying 5TB data on each backup is not practical. Is there another way to get incremental VM based backups other than using a Proxmox Backup server (which would be a third piece of hardware to maintain)? Or is there an advantage of storing the VMs on a dedicated NAS with regards to backup?
Your opinions are greatly appreciated!