How to Set Up Veeam Backup & Replication for VMware
Veeam is the de facto standard for VMware backup. This guide covers initial setup of Veeam Backup & Replication — installation, vSphere host registration, backup repository configuration, and first backup job.
What You Need
- Veeam Backup & Replication installer (download from veeam.com)
- Windows Server 2019/2022 VM or physical server for Veeam backup server
- vSphere environment with admin credentials
- Backup repository disk/server (we recommend Dell PowerEdge R740xd2)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Install Veeam Backup & Replication
Mount Veeam ISO on the backup server. Run Veeam Backup & Replication setup. Accept EULA, select install path, configure SQL (Express bundled or external). Wait 10-15 min for install completion.
Step 2: Add VMware vSphere host
Open Veeam Console > Backup Infrastructure > Managed Servers > Add Server > VMware vSphere. Enter vCenter FQDN, credentials. Veeam scans the vSphere environment.
Step 3: Create backup repository
Backup Infrastructure > Backup Repositories > Add Repository. For Linux hardened repository (recommended for V12): Server type = Linux Server > add hardened-repo Linux box (Ubuntu LTS with XFS reflinks). Or Direct attached storage on the backup server itself.
Step 4: Configure first backup job
Home > Backup Job > Virtual Machine. Add VMs from vSphere inventory. Select target repository. Set schedule (default: daily 22:00). Retention: 30 daily restore points. Click Finish.
Step 5: Run first backup
Right-click the job > Start. First backup is a full (will be large — sized to total VM data). Subsequent runs are incremental. Watch the job progress in the Veeam Console.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Veeam require Windows?
Veeam Backup & Replication runs on Windows Server. Backup repositories (storage targets) can be Linux (for hardened repository) or Windows. The console itself is Windows-only.
How much storage do I need for Veeam backups?
(Active VM size × retention days × growth factor × 2 safety margin). 50 TB VM data × 30 day retention × 10% daily change × 2 = ~400 TB repository size needed.
Need the parts?
Pro Disk Network stocks all the parts referenced in this guide. Email sales@prodisknetwork.com with your server model — we will send a quote within one business day.