The problem
Virtual-machine backups protect workloads, but they do not provide a readable timeline of changes made to the Proxmox host itself. When a network, storage, cluster, or service configuration breaks, knowing what changed can be as important as having a copy of the current file.
PCG began as a way to give server configuration the same history and reviewability that source code already gets from Git.
Configuration history, not another VM backup
PCG collects selected Proxmox host configuration, commits only when something has changed, and pushes the history to a private Git repository. Periodic systemd timers create regular checkpoints, while a shutdown service can capture one final state before virtual machines, containers, and the host are stopped.
It intentionally does not copy VM or container disks. That boundary keeps the tool focused and prevents it from being mistaken for a replacement for Proxmox Backup Server or vzdump.
An installable operational tool
What started as backup scripts developed into a lifecycle-managed toolkit:
- A guided installer with dependency and environment checks
- A read-only pre-install report showing planned changes
pcg doctorhealth checks with optional JSON output- Telegram and generic webhook notifications
- Stable and edge update channels
- Snapshots and automatic rollback during failed upgrades
- Detection and migration of earlier script and service names
- Independent schedules for backup and operational events
Safety and verification
The installation flow separates inspection from mutation and requires confirmation before applying changes. Secret files are excluded by default, sensitive configuration stays permission-restricted, duplicate shutdown runs are locked out, and a recently booted host is protected from an accidental shutdown sequence.
The repository includes Docker-based test modes for installation, backup, doctor reports, and shutdown hardening. That testability matters because the software runs at the infrastructure layer, where a convenient script still needs predictable failure behavior.
Current status
PCG is proven on real Proxmox systems, publicly maintained on GitHub, and released under the MIT licence. Its documentation includes the operating boundaries, prerequisites, security notes, upgrade procedure, and recovery behavior needed for someone other than its author to use it.