Veeam is preparing for the complete rollout of version 13 of its Veeam Data Platform (VDP), which underpins Veeam Backup & Replication (VBR), by the end of 2025. During the recent VeeamON event in San Diego, several notable features were highlighted.
Veeam Software Appliance Launch
A significant introduction is the Veeam Software Appliance. This solution will come with Veeam Backup & Replication pre-installed on a Linux server. Utilizing a specialized version of Linux known as “Just Enough OS” (JeOS) allows for optimized performance by excluding unnecessary functions, while also enhancing resistance to malware, which predominantly targets Windows systems. For instance, in 2021, French company Manutan experienced a ransomware attack affecting their Windows servers, highlighting the need for a more secure backup environment.
MCP API and RAG Functionality
The upcoming VDP 13 will also feature support for the Model Context Protocol (MCP). This integration allows Veeam’s backup solutions to connect with large language models (LLMs), providing retrieval augmented generation (RAG) functionality. This capability enhances data utilization, allowing access to historical enterprise data, some of which may no longer be active. Christophe Fontaine, Veeam’s technical director for southern Europe and Africa, emphasized the importance of managing sensitive data carefully when leveraging AI tools.
Additionally, Veeam’s chatbot interface, which is already in use, enables users to query backup statuses and identify sensitive or compromised data, with features dependent on the level of service paid for by the customer.
Veeam Data Cloud Enhancements
The Veeam Data Cloud (VDC), a cloud-based version of VBR hosted on Microsoft Azure, will support backup for Microsoft Entra ID, which serves as the new alternative to Active Directory, as well as Salesforce. While VDC shares some capabilities with on-site VBR, it also automates backup management and software updates, differentiating itself by providing enhanced service for software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications.
Future of VDP on VDC
In 2026, Veeam plans to introduce complete VDP functionalities in VDC, which will be branded as “VDP on VDC.” Currently, VDC operates exclusively on Azure while VBR allows backups to be exported to other cloud providers. The VDC platform was originally established to back up Microsoft 365 data and has gained significant traction, with over 23 million users. Veeam’s continued growth is underscored by a customer base of 550,000 and an annual revenue of $1.75 billion, securing its position as a leader in backup solutions for both Microsoft 365 and Kubernetes, according to reports from IDC and Gartner.