As you all know, during the last VeeamON 2024, the long-awaited Linux version for Veeam Backup Server installation was announced.
Those like me who are lucky enough to be part of the Veeam100 program, these days are having a chance to test the upcoming Veeam Data Platform v13 version.
Obviously this is a Technical Preview, so the future official version, which will be GA in Q2 2025, might vary a little in terms of user experience and implemented features.
Well, let’s start by revealing some details!
First, the TP looks like an OVA that can be installed on our hypervisor (e.g. VMWare).
According to current information, there should be three options for (Rocky) Linux-based software installation in the future:
- Virtual Appliance (OVA/OVF)
- Bootable ISO
- Linux installable packages (rpm)
The first two options are obviously the most recommended, because they also include the operating system and are optimized as well as compliant with the DISA-STIG and FIPS standards.
Once the OVA is installed, access will be allowed only with non-root users.
Other information, following the principles of zero trust, even the software services are associated with non-privileged accounts.
Regarding the console, the big news is the new colorful web interface, integrated into the Linux installation, which will initially operate alongside the classic VBR console.
This console will most likely not have immediately all the functionality of the classic VBR console installed with Windows, but it is still a good starting point to go and completely replace the “legacy sister”.
One option in my opinion very interesting introduced in this new console, is the possibility to manage software updates in a dedicated section, the Veeam Updater.
Very similar to what is already happening in dedicated Public Cloud backup appliances (Veeam for Azure/AWS/GCP), this section allows for custom updating of components, as well as a setting to force automatic deployment of security updates within a certain number of days of their availability.
Let us now turn to the preview of the VBR Windows console.
We can see lighter and more attractive graphics, with the option to enable dark mode as well.
In terms of new features, notable is the introduction of SAML authentication for integration with external providers and the Veeam Security Officer role (now Veeam Security Administrator) for managing the most sensitive operations.
We will stop here for now, waiting for the beta and of course the GA version! 💚