Question : VMware ESXi4 Backup

Hi,

I am working as part of a team to spec out a new office. we are looking at implementing VMware ESXi with some form of tape (preferable LTO4) backup. The server we are looking at is the Dell R710 with embedded VMware ESXi 4.

I am after some information on the backup side. What are the compatibility issues with VMware 4 and SAS drivers? I have read in a number of cases that there may be issues that could cause data integrity problems (if you manage to get it working at all) is this correct?

What would be the best approach in terms of the SCSI/SAS controllers to hook the Tape drive up to? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Answer : VMware ESXi4 Backup

Are you wanting to back up the whole VM (VM files) or the guest OS data (traditional b/u solution)? With the *free* ESXi version, b/u capability is very limited as far as backing up the whole VM. Without the paid version, you can't automate VM-level b/u's. The only way to b/u VMs is to power them down and make a copy of them (using Datastore Browser window, Veeam FastSCP (it's free), or WinSCP (also free)). You should be able to back up your guest OS data like normal though. I personally can't comment on it's connectivity though since I haven't tested that b/u solution (tape).

~coolsport00