Tips

Tips

VMware ESX and ESXi administrative tips

• Virtualizing vCenter Server: Worth the effort?

  There are strong cases for and against virtualizing vCenter Server. In this face-off, two experts argue over which method better reduces downtime and is easier to manage.  Continue Reading

• The top iPad applications for VMware admins

  If you are serious about using an iPad in a virtual data center, these top iPad applications for VMware admins will provide the proper functionality.  Continue Reading

• VCenter CapacityIQ: Navigating VMware’s capacity planning software

  VCenter CapacityIQ plugs vSphere’s reporting gaps with vital resource and usage statistics. But the capacity-planning software isn’t customizable, which may be a deal breaker.  Continue Reading

• Face-off: Is VMware Tools worth the virtual security risks?

  VMware Tools are considered a best practice but they create virtual security risks. In this face-off, two experts debate whether the benefits outweigh the security concerns.  Continue Reading

• Five vSphere 5 features that flew under the radar

  Storage DRS wasn’t a secret. But there are lesser-known vSphere 5 features that may greatly affect your VMware infrastructure, such as VMFS 5, SplitRx Mode and Metro vMotion.  Continue Reading

• Virtualizing tier-one applications: How to turn cynics into believers

  Tier-one applications are the lifeblood of businesses, so application owners are protective. But with a little coaxing, you can make the doubters into virtualization believers.  Continue Reading

• VMware security cheat sheet for PCI DSS 2.0 compliance

  New PCI DSS 2.0 guidelines finally address virtualization security. They aren’t mandatory, but the recommendations provide a solid framework for VMware security.  Continue Reading

• Installing VMware Data Recovery 2.0 for virtual data center backup

  Virtual data center backup is a priority for most IT shops. VMware Data Recovery 2.0 quickly backs up a vSphere 5 infrastructure at no additional cost.  Continue Reading

• Five big changes in VMware vSphere 5 to consider before updating

  VMware vSphere 5 will alter the way users architect and manage a virtual infrastructure. But if you understand its new features, you’ll ensure a smooth transition to vSphere 5.  Continue Reading

• Configuring the ESXi firewall in VMware vSphere 5

  The ESXi 5 hypervisor has a new firewall, similar to the ESX firewall of yore. You can configure it through the vSphere Client or command line, depending on your preference.  Continue Reading

• Patching VMware ESXi Installable

  Patching VMware ESXi Installable has changed since the release of ESXi 4.1. Now the only way to update the free hypervisor is with the vihostupdate command-line utility.  Continue Reading

• VMware vSphere Replication breaks disaster recovery storage barriers

  VSphere Replication eliminates expensive disaster recovery storage requirements. SMBs no longer have to be jealous of enterprises’ DR plans.  Continue Reading

• CapacityIQ: Installing VMware’s capacity planning tool

  CapacityIQ adds an advanced reporting element to vCenter Server. By installing this capacity planning tool, you can capacity-plan for infrastructure expansion and control VM sprawl.  Continue Reading

• Five ways to increase your server consolidation ratio

  Bosses love server consolidation, because it reduces costs. To keep your bosses smiling, find new ways to increase your consolidation ratio.  Continue Reading

• Installing VMware Tools: Believe the hype

  Installing VMware Tools adds an eclectic mix of management and performance capabilities to a VMware infrastructure. There are only a few downsides, and it’s free.  Continue Reading