VMware officially launched their next-generation (version 5) enterprise server virtualization product line this week under the "vSphere 5" name. As I've been doing for the last few major VMware releases, I'm focusing this post on the storage changes present in vSphere 5. For more information on earlier updates, see my articles: Storage Fixes in VMware ESX Server 3.5 Update … [Read more...] about Storage Changes in VMware vSphere 5
ESX
VMware PSP and SATP in Plain English
I am often questioned during my Storage for Virtual Environments seminar presentations about VMware's Pluggable Storage Architecture (PSA). This system is fairly straightforward and concept: VMware provides native multipathing support for a variety of storage arrays, and allows third parties to substitute their own plug-ins at various points in the stack. But the profusion of … [Read more...] about VMware PSP and SATP in Plain English
IBM Adds VAAI Support to XIV and SVC
VMware's vStorage API for Array Integration (VAAI) is one of the most-important storage technology advances of the decade, allowing the VMware ESX to integrate and coordinate operations with supported enterprise storage arrays. After an explosion of initial support, however, VAAI implementation slowed. IBM was notably absent from the party, listing only partial support for a … [Read more...] about IBM Adds VAAI Support to XIV and SVC
How To Select a Virtual Server Backup Product?
A few months ago, DCIG released their Virtual Server Backup Software Buyer's Guide. Although some were critical of the process and results of this guide, I appreciate the effort involved in pulling together the data. Personally, I would rather have a single source for data, even if I didn't agree with the recommendations! Now I have been asked to write an article for … [Read more...] about How To Select a Virtual Server Backup Product?
Introducing Storage for Virtual Environments (From My Seminar)
Next Thursday will be the first time I present my new-for-2011 Storage for Virtual Environments seminar. I've worked hard on the content, and appreciate all the input I've had from my readers and industry contacts since I first asked for help here on my blog. The Virtual Opportunity So what am I going to cover in this seminar? I hit on an interesting twist while working on … [Read more...] about Introducing Storage for Virtual Environments (From My Seminar)