A virtual disk image

A virtual disk image is a file or group of files in which a virtual machine stores its data. In Proxmox, a VM configuration file can be recreated and used to attach a disk image. But if the image itself is lost, it can only be restored from a backup. There are different types of virtual disk image formats available to be used with a virtual machine. It is essential to know the different types of image formats in order to have an optimally performing VM. Knowing the disk images also helps prevent the premature shortage of space, which may occur by over-provisioning virtual disks.

Supported image formats

Proxmox supports the .raw, .qcow2, and .vmdk virtual disk formats. Each format has its own set of strengths...