As I have done since version 3.5, I'm charting the storage changes in VMware's latest release of vSphere, 5.1. Detailed at VMworld but not released as of this writing, vSphere 5.1 is lauded for eliminating the "vTax" and bringing features like replication, a revised backup application, and shared-nothing vMotion. Unlike version 5, which included many new technical storage … [Read more...] about Storage Changes in VMware vSphere 5.1
VASA
“Our Storage Array Is Compatible with VMware…” Says Who?
I talk to dozens of companies every week, and every one says the same thing: “Our product is compatible with VMware!” But not everyone's definition of “compatible” is the same, and some are not compatible (I couldn't resist) with the requirements of production data centers. Therefore, I present to you my spectrum of compatibility for VMware. A Spectrum of … [Read more...] about “Our Storage Array Is Compatible with VMware…” Says Who?
Are You a Hypervisor Hugger or a Storage Stalwart?
The time has come to take sides on the core question of storage for virtual servers: Do you want storage intelligence to live in the hypervisor or the array? Most administrators are already lining up on one side or the other, unintentionally casting their vote while the rest flounder. But the storage industry must wake up and embrace the divide. Hypervisor Huggers … [Read more...] about Are You a Hypervisor Hugger or a Storage Stalwart?
What is VMware VASA? Not Much (Yet)
The list of VMware storage integration features in vSphere is growing at a rapid pace. From backup to enterprise array offload, VMware is staking their claim. But information about one new storage feature in vSphere 5 has been scarce: The true nature of the Storage API for Storage Awareness (VASA) is only just beginning to be revealed. VASA: Born of Necessity vSphere has some … [Read more...] about What is VMware VASA? Not Much (Yet)
VMware as Oedipus: How Server Virtualization will Change Storage Forever
Later this week, I'll be presenting a session at Storage Expo NL which I imagine will be quite controversial: "VMware as Oedipus: How Server Virtualization will Change Storage Forever". That's right, I'm suggesting that VMware is the biggest threat to traditional enterprise storage, and that the company might just bump off its own parent (EMC) in the process. What the heck am I … [Read more...] about VMware as Oedipus: How Server Virtualization will Change Storage Forever