How To Install Debian 12 on Proxmox VE 9

Running Debian 12 (Bookworm) on Proxmox VE 9 allows you to combine the stability of one of the world’s most trusted Linux distributions with the flexibility of a powerful virtualization platform. Whether you need a lightweight server, a development environment, or a production-ready virtual machine

Step 1: Upload Debian 12 ISO to Proxmox

Log in to the Proxmox web interface through your browser.

• Navigate to the storage section where ISO images are stored.
• Select ISO Images and upload the Debian 12 ISO file you downloaded.
  This makes Debian 12 available as an installation option when creating your VM:

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine

Now you can create the Debian 12 VM in Proxmox:

• Click Create VM in the top menu.
  
  
• Assign a VM ID and a name (for example, “Debian12-Server”).
  
  
• Under the OS tab, choose the Debian 12 ISO image.
  
  
• Configure the system settings. Proxmox will automatically detect recommended defaults.
  
  

For performance, allocate enough resources:

• CPU: At least 2 cores.
  
  
• Memory: Minimum of 2 GB RAM, more for heavier workloads.
  
  
• Disk: At least 20 GB storage space, preferably using SSD storage.
  
  

Step 3: Run the Debian 12 Installer

Start the virtual machine and open the console. The Debian 12 installer will launch.
Follow the guided steps:

1. Language and region: Select your preferred language, time zone, and keyboard layout.
   
   
2. Network configuration: Assign a hostname and configure network settings. By default, DHCP will work for most setups.
   
   
3. User setup: Create a root password (if needed) and add a standard user account.
   
   
4. Disk partitioning: Choose guided partitioning for simplicity unless you want a custom layout.
5. Software selection: Choose the components you need, such as standard utilities, an SSH server, or a desktop environment.
   
   

The installer will copy files, install the bootloader, and finalize the setup

Step 4: Reboot and First Login

When the installation is complete, reboot the VM. Debian 12 will start up inside Proxmox.

Pi-hole will now install! Give it a few minutes to ensure that it’s fully configured. When it’s complete, you’ll receive a confirmation page where you can select OK to proceed. Please note the password given so that you can log in to the web

Step 5: Post-Installation Setup

After logging in, perform some important post-installation tasks:

• System updates: Always update the system to the latest packages for security and performance.
  
  
• Install Proxmox guest tools: These tools improve VM performance and allow better integration with Proxmox (such as monitoring and shutdown)..
  
  
• Networking: Configure static IP addresses if required, or leave DHCP enabled for dynamic assignment.
  
  
• confirm: Install web servers, databases, or desktop environments depending on your use case.finish
  
  

Step 6: Optimize Debian on Proxmox

For the best performance, consider the following optimizations:

• Enable ballooning and KVM hardware virtualization in VM settings:
  
  
• Use virtio drivers for disk and network for better performance.
  
  
• Set up snapshots before major upgrades to roll back if needed.
  
  
• Configure regular backups through Proxmox to protect data.