VMware, as you may already be aware, is a system that allows you to virtualize your whole server. Basically, you take one physical machine and have it act as a host to several virtual machines, which gives the original hardware the capacity and abilities of several machines. The memory and processes are all virtual, which makes your infrastructure easier to deal with and which can also cut down significantly on the size and power needed for your server room.
VMware ESX is another product offered by the same company that offers VMware in general. This add-on product allows you to more easily manage your VMware infrastructure. Instead of needing a third-party operating system, the ESX system runs on a computer alone with its own kernel. There are different kernels that various ESX versions use, but each one has its own advantages.
VMware ESX is a great system to use for your entire server, and it has a lot of great features. One of the things that you have to think about when dealing with a virtualized server, though, is how you are going to deal with the backup of said server. There are many different types of backup and data recovery solutions for VMware ESX, although some are obviously better than others.
One of the things to look for in your backup solution for VMware ESX is whether or not the backup system is also virtual. Ideally, you’ll have a virtual backup system because that will be in keeping with your idea of streamlining your overall system and cutting back on hardware. A software-based system that allows you to run backups for several different virtual machines at the same time will give you the most speed and will work with your VMware ESX system the most smoothly and efficiently.