Configuring Backup Proxy for VMware

Configuring Backup Proxy for VMware

What is a Backup Proxy?  

A backup proxy is an intermediary component between the backup server and the source ESXi/vCenter. It handles data processing from the source and delivers it to the backup server. The backup server then manages the data received from the proxy and writes it to the backup repository.

When to Use a Backup Proxy  

A backup proxy is recommended in environments with:
  1. Large data volumes or numerous virtual machines.
  2. To share the workload with the main backup server, preventing overload.
Using a backup proxy ensures:
  1. Data flow without network slowdowns.
  2. Prevention of server overload by sharing the workload.
  3. Efficient scalability for faster and more reliable backups.

VMware Backup Proxy Transport Modes  

  1. Hot-Add Mode: Enables efficient data transfer by directly attaching the VM's disks to the backup proxy.
  2. LAN-Free Data Transfer: Reduces dependency on the network, improving backup performance.
  3. Performance Benefits: Reduces backup times, minimizes network dependency, and lowers CPU and network load on the ESXi host.

How a Backup Proxy Works  

  1. The backup proxy processes data from the source ESXi/vCenter.
  2. The processed data is delivered to the backup server.
  3. The backup server manages this data and writes it to the backup repository.

How to Assign a Backup Proxy for VMware  

  1. Navigate to the Advanced Settings of your VMware backup job configuration
  2. Enable Backup Proxy:Toggle the slider button to the right to enable the backup proxy.
  3. Select a Backup Proxy:Click the drop-down menu in the Select Backup Proxy.
  4. Choose a proxy server from the list to process the backup job.
  5. If no proxy server is available, you can add one from the Add & Manage Backup Proxy for VMware page
Notes
Note : If you do not assign a proxy server, the backup job will be processed by the main backup server by default.