Proxmox VE

How to Configure BIOS Settings - Complete Beginner's Guide

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How to Configure BIOS Settings - Complete Beginner’s Guide

Question: How do I configure BIOS for Proxmox VMs?

Answer: Configure BIOS type in VM settings

Understanding BIOS Options

What is BIOS in Virtual Machines?

Just like physical computers, VMs need firmware to start. Proxmox supports two types:

  • SeaBIOS: Traditional BIOS (legacy, simpler)
  • OVMF: UEFI BIOS (modern, more features)

How to Change BIOS Type (Web UI)

Step 1: Edit VM Options

  1. Select your VM → Options tab
  2. Find BIOS setting
  3. Click dropdown
  4. Select: SeaBIOS or OVMF

Step 2: Save and Start

Click OK, then start the VM

How to Change BIOS (CLI)

Set SeaBIOS

# Traditional BIOS
qm set 100 --bios seabios

Set UEFI/OVMF

# UEFI BIOS
qm set 100 --bios ovmf

Which BIOS Should I Choose?

Use SeaBIOS When:

  • Installing old Windows versions (XP, 7)
  • Using legacy operating systems
  • Maximum compatibility needed
  • Faster boot time required

Use OVMF (UEFI) When:

  • Installing Windows 10/11
  • Installing modern Linux
  • Need secure boot
  • Using GPT disks over 2TB
  • Need UEFI features

How to Check Current BIOS

Via CLI

qm config 100 | grep -i bios

Expected Output

bios: ovmf

Keywords

bios uefi seabios vm how-to configuration

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